How Do Valkyries Adjust Without Kayla Thornton?

In their inaugural season, the Valkyries have exceeded many expectations. With a record of 10 wins and 12 losses at the All-Star break, they found themselves on the outside looking in. The Valkyries were in a strong position to make a push for the playoffs, but then disaster struck—Kayla Thornton, their All-Star who led the team in both scoring and rebounding, went down with an injury. The question now is: how will they adjust without her?

After three games without Thornton, the answer has become clearer—everyone has to step up. The Valkyries have won two of their last three games, with contributions coming from all corners. Excluding the rough game against the Sun, the team has received solid supplementary scoring from several players. So, where has this production come from?

Tiffany Hayes has been shooting the ball extremely well and has been everywhere on the court, contributing on both ends. Cecilia Zandalasini has shot the ball effectively and started playing more off the dribble. She can shoot with confidence, and once she finds her rhythm, she’s able to create for herself and set up her teammates. Carla Leite has looked increasingly comfortable as the season has progressed. She excels at getting to the paint and finishing or setting up her teammates. While she sometimes forces passes to the roller, her decision-making has definitely improved. In the paint, Temi Fagbenle has been a dominant presence. Her defense has been stellar in recent games, and against the Wings, she made a significant impact on both ends of the floor, hitting one of the biggest shots of the game. Janelle Salaun, another player from France like Leite, has been crucial offensively. She takes and makes tough shots, filling into Thornton’s role seamlessly and providing much-needed scoring, especially in the win against the Wings. These players have been the standouts, but the entire team has been contributing.

From a coaching and team standpoint, what has been working? The sets run by the Valkyries are simple yet effective, consistently generating good shots. Recently, they've incorporated more horns actions, utilizing the high post and running shooters and playmakers off screens. They've also employed plenty of dribble hand-offs (DHO’s) and side ball screens to get downhill and create offense. Leite and Zandalasini have done an excellent job handling the ball in these situations. Shooters have been ready, and the team has shot the ball well over the past few games. The recent activation of Iliana Rupert has provided a nice boost as well. Her ability to stretch the floor, coupled with her size, has made her a perfect fit for this team.

The Valkyries are in prime position to make a playoff push and certainly have the talent to do so. With plenty of the season left, the team will look to work their way into the playoffs and become the first expansion team to make the playoffs in their inaugural season.

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