In a season ripe with breakout performances, NaLyssa Smith has emerged as a pivotal force alongside her teammates, solidifying her place among the league's top players. Initially starting off the season outside the first five, Smith's return to the starting lineup has propelled her to new heights.
Drafted as the No. 2 pick in the 2022 WNBA draft, Smith showcases her prowess as a dominant rebounder, ranking among the top 16 in the league with an impressive seven rebounds per game. Her tenacity on the boards trails closely behind Indiana's Aliyah Boston, demonstrating Smith's commitment to asserting herself as one of the league's premier rebounders.
"I want to keep rebounding hard," Smith asserts. "I know I can be one of the best rebounders in this league."
Smith also shines in field goal percentage, shooting an efficient 50.3% from the field, making her the Fever's leading player by this metric. Her consistency is evident with nine games where she's shot over 50% from the field.
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| NaLyssa Smith: Rising Star of the WNBA Season |
Coach Christie Sides emphasizes the importance of paint touches in their offensive strategy, highlighting Smith's role in collapsing defenses alongside Boston. This strategy not only opens up scoring opportunities but also showcases Smith's ability to capitalize on high-percentage shots near the rim.
Smith's offensive contributions have been instrumental in Indiana's successes this season, scoring in double figures in six of their seven victories. Her partnership with rookie guard Caitlin Clark enhances the team's offensive efficiency, leveraging Clark's playmaking abilities to feed Smith in advantageous positions.
"It's been a focus for us as a group," Clark remarks. "We want to play inside-out, getting our posts involved, which benefits NaLyssa. That's the highest percentage shot in basketball."
Defensively, Smith has embraced challenges this season, significantly improving her shot-blocking abilities. Averaging over a block per game, Smith has already doubled her block total from the previous season, showcasing her growth and dedication to becoming a well-rounded player.
"I've taken defense a lot more seriously," Smith acknowledges. "It's been a personal challenge, and I'm focused on contributing on both ends of the court."
As she continues to elevate her game, Smith aims to secure her spot among the 2024 WNBA All-Stars in Phoenix. With her stellar performance and impactful presence on the court, Smith's candidacy for the All-Star frontcourt is increasingly compelling, reflecting her growing influence and contributions to the Fever's season.
NaLyssa Smith's journey exemplifies resilience and growth, underscoring her emergence as a standout player in the WNBA. As the season unfolds, her impact promises to shape Indiana's campaign and solidify her place among the league's elite.