2023 WNBA Finals: Ranking the 10 starters for the Aces and Liberty
As we approach the 2023 WNBA Finals, a highly-anticipated showdown is set to unfold between the Las Vegas Aces, the defending champions, and the New York Liberty, who are seeking their first-ever franchise title. Both teams boast a plethora of elite talent, and their starting lineups alone carry an impressive array of accolades.
Collectively, the ten expected starters have accumulated a remarkable list of achievements, including five MVP awards, three Finals MVP honors, two Defensive Player of the Year titles, two Rookie of the Year awards, three Most Improved Player awards, two Sixth Player of the Year awards, 31 All-Star selections, 22 All-WNBA team appearances, and 14 All-Defensive team nods. Notably, this count doesn’t even account for the absence of the future Hall of Famer Candace Parker, who is sidelined due to a foot injury.
Before the action unfolds, let’s assess the players and their standings among their peers. Please note that the players are categorized into four tiers based on their performance and impact.
Tier 1: Best in the World
Breanna Stewart:
The standout forward of the New York Liberty faced early offensive challenges in the playoffs but remained a defensive force. Her late resurgence in the semifinals underscores her importance, and the Liberty will rely on her MVP-caliber play to clinch their first franchise title.
A’ja Wilson:
The regular season MVP may have gone to Stewart, but Wilson has dominated the postseason, achieving three consecutive 30-point games. Averaging an impressive 25.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks, Wilson is unequivocally one of the best players globally and a force at both ends of the court, capable of swaying the series in favor of the Aces single-handedly.
Tier 2: Former MVP
Jonquel Jones:
The New York Liberty’s center, Jones, the 2018 MVP, is an integral part of the series. While not on the same level as Stewart and Wilson, she possesses a unique combination of size and skill, making her a potential X-factor. Jones has been stellar in the playoffs, averaging 16.5 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks.
Tier 3: All-Stars
Chelsea Gray:
As the reigning Finals MVP, Gray is a reliable big-game player and playmaker. While not replicating her historic playoff performance from the previous season, she’s still a significant contributor, averaging 16 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 6.4 assists.
Sabrina Ionescu:
Ionescu, known for her versatility and sharpshooting, holds the potential to swing games with her three-point prowess. Although her playoff shooting has been inconsistent, her regular-season success against the Aces offers hope for a turnaround.
Betnijah Laney:
The Liberty’s most consistent playoff performer, Laney has been a scoring machine and will be crucial on both ends of the court. With her strong defense and impressive offensive production, she plays a pivotal role.
Kelsey Plum:
The Aces’ sharpshooter has been known for her perimeter scoring. While she hasn’t hit her peak form in the playoffs, her ability to find her shot could be essential in keeping pace with the high-scoring Liberty.
Courtney Vandersloot:
The Liberty’s experienced point guard, Vandersloot, leads in assists and plays a crucial role in orchestrating the offense. Her ball-handling and playmaking are vital, especially against the Aces’ strong defense.
Jackie Young:
Young has emerged as an All-WNBA caliber player with her size, physicality, and improved three-point shooting. While her production has been well-rounded in the playoffs, her efficiency needs improvement.
Tier 4: Role Player
Kiah Stokes:
Stokes, who joined the Aces’ starting lineup in place of the injured Candace Parker, plays a valuable role. She excels in rebounding and rim protection but is less impactful on the offensive end. Her presence at critical moments may vary due to matchups.
The 2023 WNBA Finals promise to be a showcase of exceptional talent and skill, with these ten starters poised to deliver an exciting and closely contested series.
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