It’s official! Satou Sabally, the dynamic forward for the Dallas Wings, has been crowned the 2023 Kia WNBA Most Improved Player. This prestigious award is a testament to her remarkable growth and consistent excellence on the court.
Sabally, a seasoned veteran at just 25 years old, dominated this season, shattering her previous records. She averaged a whopping 18.6 points per game, grabbed 8.1 rebounds, dished out 4.4 assists, and stole the ball 1.8 times per contest. Those numbers are a far cry from her 2022 performance, where she averaged just 11.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 0.5 steals. Her dedication to improving her game is evident in her impressive statline.
Sabally’s growth is not just about scoring points. She’s developed into a complete player, demonstrating her skills in all areas of the game. Her three-point shooting accuracy leaped from 23.3% to a remarkable 36.1%. Her overall field goal percentage also saw a significant jump, reaching a career-high 43.5%. She is a force to be reckoned with on the court!
A Star is Born
Her outstanding performance earned her a well-deserved spot on the AT&T WNBA All-Star Game roster for the second time. This year, she was selected as a starter, a true honor for a player who has consistently pushed herself to new heights. She also participated in the Kia WNBA Skills Challenge, showcasing her versatility and athleticism alongside her teammate Arike Ogunbowale.
Sabally’s exceptional play helped the Wings reach new heights this season. They achieved their highest win total (22) and regular season winning percentage (.550) since 2008, solidifying their place as a formidable force in the league. Their success led them to the No. 4 seed in the WNBA Playoffs presented by Google, where they will face off against the Las Vegas Aces in the Semifinals.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
This award isn’t just a symbol of Sabally’s talent; it’s a reflection of her tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to the game. She’s a role model for young athletes, proving that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
Her journey to becoming the Kia WNBA Most Improved Player is an inspiring story. She has played for the German Women’s National Team and was an All-America selection at the University of Oregon. Now, she is making her mark in the WNBA, joining Skylar Diggins-Smith as the second player in Wings franchise history to win this prestigious award.
Sabally’s achievements will be celebrated with a $5,150 prize and a custom-designed trophy. Her success is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the game, and we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in the years to come.
