Lisa Leslie's pick for Unrivaled MVP is a bold statement, but it shouldn't come as a surprise. With Napheesa Collier's injury opening the door for a competitive race, several players are making strong cases for the award. Among them, Aliyah Boston, Marina Mabrey, Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Allisha Gray stand out. However, Lisa Leslie's choice of Brittney Sykes as a clear favorite is a fascinating one.
Sykes is having an exceptional season, and her performances have directly contributed to the Laces' success. The team boasts one of the deepest rosters in Unrivaled, with Sykes, Jackie Young, Alyssa Thomas, Naz Hillmon, Maddy Siegrist, and Jordin Canada leading the way. Sykes is the top scorer with an impressive 19.6 points per game, exceeding the 20-point mark five times and almost reaching 30 points on several occasions. Her efficiency is remarkable, with a field goal percentage of nearly 50% and a three-point shooting percentage of 42.1%.
But Sykes' impact goes beyond scoring. She averages 3.8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, showcasing her all-around skills. The Laces' dominance is evident in their 9-2 record, securing a playoff spot. Sykes' case for MVP is further strengthened by her team's success and her own efficiency.
What's intriguing is that Sykes plays fewer minutes than many top scorers in the league. While Chelsea Gray, Marina Mabrey, Paige Bueckers, and Aaliyah Edwards average at least 19 minutes per game, Sykes averages only 15.6 minutes. This highlights the depth of the Laces' bench and their strategic approach to player usage.
The Laces' journey to the top is a testament to their potential. Last season, injuries hindered their progress, but this year, they are living up to their championship aspirations. The team's success is a result of their depth and the exceptional performances of players like Sykes.
However, the Laces' path to the championship is not without challenges. The Mist, led by Breanna Stewart and Allisha Gray, defeated the Laces in their second game of the season, and the Phantom narrowly lost to them on January 16. These encounters remind us that the competition is fierce, and the MVP race is far from over.
