Let’s break in to this week’s first “WNBA Six Pack” by taking a look at the six Western Conference teams.
For each squad, we’re highlighting a player who exemplifies the spirit of persistence required to survive and thrive in a league with a maximum of 144 spots — from milestone-making legends to burgeoning stars to workaday vets.
Las Vegas Aces (23-2): Jackie’s superstar jump
Imagine being presented with this proposition at the end of the 2019 season: Four seasons from now, is it more likely that Jackie Young scores in single digits in 24 of the first 25 games? Or, is it more likely she scores in double digits in 24 of the first 25 games?
The No. 1 pick in the 2019 draft, Young averaged 6.6 points per game as a rookie, shooting 32.2 percent from the field. Evidence suggested shooting and scoring would not become her signature skills.
Yet, here we are. Sunday’s win over the Dallas Wings was the first time this season Young did not score in double figures. Her shooting and scoring numbers are still sparkling. Young is averaging 18.6 points per game on a true shooting percentage of 67.4, currently the third-best mark in the league. Her percentage is in this stratosphere because she is burning the nets from behind the arc, making 47.5 percent of her 4.9…
