Top WNBA Players: Aces’ Jackie Young and Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu Crack the Top 10
A look at some of the WNBA’s elite, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses and overall impact on their respective teams.
Kahleah Copper: Phoenix Mercury’s Rising Star (No. 10)
kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury kicks off the top 10 after a career-best season, averaging 21.1 points and 2.3 assists. Known for her clutch performances, Copper converted nearly 58% of her shots in critical moments. While her offensive role impacted her defensive presence, her defensive capabilities remain a notable asset. The addition of new talent to Phoenix may allow her to regain more of her defensive edge.
Jackie Young: Las Vegas Aces’ Versatile Wing (No.9)
Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces experienced a year of growth, taking on more on-ball responsibilities due to injuries within the team. This led to a career-high 5.3 assists per game and increased willingness to shoot from beyond the arc, attempting a career-high 5.6 3-pointers per game. Though,her efficiency dipped from a True Shooting percentage of 65.7 to 55.7 due to increased defensive pressure and a greater need for self-creation, with over 44% of her baskets being self-created. Ailments also hampered her defensive performance. with improved health,Young is expected to return to her All-Defense caliber.
Jonquel Jones: New York Liberty’s Dynamic center (No. 8)
Jonquel Jones of the New York Liberty capped off an impressive career by adding a WNBA title and Finals MVP to her already extensive list of accolades. A force at the center position, Jones excels both in the post (1.13 points per possession, ranking second among high-volume post players) and as a long-range shooter (38.8% on 3.9 attempts). Her rebounding prowess and defensive versatility further solidify her status as one of the league’s premier players. While consistency in handling double-teams remains an area for growth, Jones continues to be a dominant presence.
Nneka Ogwumike: Seattle Storm’s Underrated Star (No. 7)
Nneka Ogwumike of the Seattle Storm is considered by some to be the moast underrated star in the WNBA. Her exceptional defense, particularly as a hedge defender in Seattle’s aggressive ball-screen scheme, is noteworthy. Ogwumike also generated steals at a high rate (1.9 per game). Offensively,she continues to be one of the most effective post players (1.1 points per possession, ranking third among high-volume players) and a reliable spacer (40.5% on 2.0 3-point attempts). Despite a tough playoff exit, Ogwumike’s versatility and high-level performance on both ends of the court make her a valuable asset.
Sabrina Ionescu: New York Liberty’s Evolving Guard (No. 6)
Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty displayed significant growth and refinement in her game, even if it wasn’t always reflected in the box score. While her 3-point percentage dipped to 33.3% on 8.4 attempts, her mere shot influenced team defenses. Ionescu leveraged this threat to enhance her playmaking and become a more risky downhill threat. She improved her ability to draw contact and developed a reliable floater and short pull-up. Defensively,Ionescu’s versatility allowed her to guard multiple positions,contributing to the team’s overall defensive scheme. Statistical analysis reveals that Ionescu was one of 60 players to defend at least 100 drives last season. Her points-per-possession allowed (0.9 PPP) and blow-by rate (24.5) figures were lower than Napheesa Collier’s (0.91 PPP and 26.1 respectively).
How does Sabrina IonescuS defensive versatility contribute to her overall impact on the Liberty’s success?
Top WNBA Players: Aces’ Jackie Young and Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu Crack the Top 10
WNBA Top 10 Players: Q&A
This Q&A section dives deeper into the WNBA’s top players,offering insights and clarifications on their strengths,weaknesses,and impact on their respective teams,as highlighted in the article.
Q: What makes Kahleah Copper a top 10 player?
A: Kahleah Copper’s inclusion is primarily due to a career-best season, averaging 21.1 points and 2.3 assists. Her clutch performances and offensive capabilities are noteworthy.
Q: How has Jackie Young’s role changed, and how has it impacted her performance?
A: Jackie Young took on more on-ball responsibilities due to injuries. This led to increased assists and 3-point attempts, but also a dip in shooting efficiency.Her defensive performance was also hampered by ailments.
Q: What are Jonquel Jones strengths?
A: Jonquel Jones is a force, excelling in the post and as a long-range shooter. Her rebounding and defensive versatility make her a dominant presence.
Q: Why is Nneka Ogwumike considered underrated?
A: Nneka Ogwumike is praised for her exceptional defense, especially in ball-screen schemes, and her high steal rate. She’s also a highly effective post player and reliable three-point shooter.
Q: How has Sabrina Ionescu evolved her game?
A: Sabrina Ionescu has improved her playmaking and become a more risky downhill threat. She is a versatile defender and has improved her ability to draw contact and develop a reliable floater and short pull-up.
Discovering the nuanced strengths and evolution of these WNBA stars gives you deeper appreciation for the game. Keep watching these players and their impact on the league!
