In a season teeming with breakout potential, NaLyssa Smith is finding her stride alongside her talented teammates. Although she started the season outside the starting lineup, her return to the first five has unlocked a new level of performance.
NaLyssa Smith Rebounding Prowess
As the No. 2 pick in the 2022 WNBA draft, Smith has established herself as a top-16 rebounder in the league, averaging seven rebounds per game. This places her just behind Indiana’s team leader, Aliyah Boston, who averages slightly more.
“I want to keep rebounding hard,” Smith said. “I know I can be one of the best rebounders in this league.”
Efficient Scoring and High Field Goal Percentage
Smith ranks among the top-14 in the WNBA for field goal percentage, making an impressive 50.3 percent of her shots. She leads the Indiana Fever in this category and has recorded nine games with a field goal percentage of 50 percent or higher.
“We keep emphasizing paint touches,” coach Christie Sides said. “When you get a paint touch, it collapses the defense. With the way Boston and Smith play, you have to utilize your posts. They create wide-open looks.”
Offensive Contributions and Synergy with Caitlin Clark
NaLyssa Smith offensive game has been crucial to Indiana’s success this season. She has scored in double figures in six of Indiana’s seven wins. Her synergy with rookie guard Caitlin Clark has been a key factor in boosting Indiana’s offensive efficiency. Clark’s ability to draw defenders to the perimeter has allowed Smith to benefit from increased post touches, making 72 percent of her shots at the rim and 59 percent within 10 feet of the basket.
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“It’s been a focus for us as a team,” Clark said. “We want to play inside-out and get our posts touches. The more we can do that, the better for NaLyssa…That’s the highest percentage shot in basketball.”
Defensive Improvements and Blocking Skills
NaLyssa Smith three double-doubles this season tie Clark for the second-most by a Fever player, behind Boston’s five. While Smith has been a potent offensive weapon, she has also made significant contributions on the defensive end.
“I’ve been challenged a lot this year defensively,” Smith said. “I took it as a challenge and started taking defense more seriously.”
She averages just over a block per game, showing significant improvement from her first two years in the league. Smith’s block total for the entire 2023 season was just 10, but she has already doubled that mark with 21 blocks through just 19 games in the 2024 season. She has swatted 10 shots over the Fever’s last seven games, showcasing a stark contrast from her block totals last season.
Eyeing the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game
As NaLyssa Smith continues to ascend, she aims to earn a spot in the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game in Phoenix. If she maintains her efficient play, she makes a strong case for inclusion in the All-Star frontcourt.
In conclusion, NaLyssa Smith’s impressive rebounding, efficient scoring, and improved defense have made her a standout player this season. Her synergy with teammates and dedication to both ends of the court position her as a key player for the Indiana Fever and a potential WNBA All-Star.
