The WNBA is a league that's often overlooked, but this season, several players are making waves and proving that they deserve more attention. While some are capitalizing on increased opportunities, others have simply gotten better. Here are four players who have made a significant leap this season, and why they matter.
Sonia Citron, Washington Mystics
Sonia Citron was a legitimate Rookie of the Year candidate for the Washington Mystics last year, but she's somehow made another leap this season. Citron is averaging 24.3 points (up from 14.9 points last year) while shooting a ridiculous 60.5% from the field. She's getting to the line 9.3 times per game — the second-most in the WNBA — and sinking 82.1% of attempts. It's early, but it already looks like Citron could be one of the best guards in the WNBA.
What makes Citron's performance particularly fascinating is her ability to consistently shoot from deep while also driving to the basket. Her improved scoring average is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and it's a pleasure to watch her dominate the court. In my opinion, Citron's success this season is a sign that she's ready to take the next step in her career, and I can't wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.
Chennedy Carter, Las Vegas Aces
Chennedy Carter is an absolute bucket-getter, and her efficiency through the first 5 games of the Aces season has been ridiculous. She's averaging 19.4 points in just 21.4 minutes per game off the bench, while shooting 67.2% from the field and 37.5% from three. Carter is on this list, but she actually wasn't in the WNBA last season. Still, this is the most effective she's been since entering the league — and the Aces' decision to add her to their bench already looks like a shrewd one.
What makes Carter's performance particularly interesting is her ability to adapt to different roles. Her success with the Aces is a testament to her versatility and her willingness to take on new challenges. From my perspective, Carter's performance this season is a sign that she's ready to become a cornerstone of the Aces' success, and I can't wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.
Dominique Malonga, Seattle Storm
Dominique Malonga is averaging 16 points per game this season, up from 7.7 points last year, as she's seen her on-court opportunities significantly increase. Malonga is also averaging 7.3 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal per game. Malonga is currently in concussion protocol, but has looked dominant to begin the year.
What makes Malonga's performance particularly noteworthy is her ability to step up in a big way. Her increased opportunities in Seattle have allowed her to showcase her skills and potential, and it's a pleasure to watch her dominate the court. In my opinion, Malonga's performance this season is a sign that she's ready to become a key player for the Storm, and I can't wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.
Bridget Carleton, Portland Fire
Bridget Carleton is one of the WNBA's highest-paid players, and as of late, she's been playing like it. Carleton has been awesome for the Fire, averaging 16.7 points while shooting 45.9% from the field and 41.7% from three. That's up from 6.5 points per game last season with the Minnesota Lynx.
What makes Carleton's performance particularly fascinating is her ability to adapt to a new role. Her success with the Fire is a testament to her versatility and her willingness to take on new challenges. From my perspective, Carleton's performance this season is a sign that she's ready to become a primary offensive option for the Fire, and I can't wait to see what she accomplishes in the future.
In conclusion, these four players have made significant leaps this season, and their performances are a testament to their hard work and dedication. As the season progresses, I can't wait to see what they accomplish and how they continue to evolve. In my opinion, these players are a sign that the WNBA is a league on the rise, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for them and the league as a whole.
