Per release, the WNBA has announced that New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart has been named the Kia WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Month for September, as well as the Eastern Conference Player of the Week for games played from Monday, September 9 to Thursday, September 19.
This monthly accolade marks Stewie’s seventh career Player of the Month honor and the 19th in Liberty history. Additionally, her Player of the Week recognition is the 18th of her career and the 60th all-time for a Liberty player.
A Stellar September led by Stewie
Stewie’s performance in September was just what the doctor ordered going into the playoffs, set to begin on Sunday, September 22nd. Over the course of the Liberty’s seven-game stretch, the team finished with a 5-2 record. Stewie herself averaged 20.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, shooting 45.7% from the field, 34.6% from three-point range, and 80.4% from the free-throw line. These stats underscore not only her scoring prowess but also her efficiency across multiple shooting metrics. If Stewart can maintain this level of performance in the playoffs, the Liberty have a legitimate shot at hoisting its first ever WNBA championship in franchise history.
Per release, The reigning WNBA MVP ranked second among Eastern Conference players in double-doubles (3), average points off turnovers (5.0), and average fast-break points (4.1).
Her ability to capitalize on turnovers and lead fast breaks was crucial in the Liberty's successful run.
During the five games from September 9 to September 19, Stewart averaged a conference-leading 21.4 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 46.7% from the field, 34.8% from three-point range, and 85.3% from the free-throw line. She led all players with 6.2 points off turnovers per game and was one of only two Eastern Conference players to average at least 10 points in the paint per game that week.
Milestones and Record-Breaking Achievements
Breaking records is something Breanna is well-acquainted with. September was a month of milestones for Stewie, underscoring her dominance and versatility on the court. Here are the achievements made by Breanna per release:
Scored a season-high 38 points and tied her career high with 18 rebounds on September 15 vs. Minnesota.
Tied Elena Delle Donne for the third-most games of at least three blocks in WNBA history with her 51st such game.
Passed Plenette Pierson for 10th on the Liberty’s all-time scoring list.
Blocked Jackie Young’s potential game-tying layup attempt with 5.5 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter on September 8 vs. Las Vegas.
Tied a Liberty franchise record for most career 30-point games with her 13th career 30-point performance on September 15 vs. Minnesota.
Made the 1,250th free throw of her career to become the second-fastest player in WNBA history to make 1,250 free throws (259 games).
Tied Lisa Leslie and Candace Parker for the fourth-most games of at least 25 points and 10 rebounds in WNBA history with the 13th such game of her career.
Conclusion
Breanna Stewart's has already solidified her status as one of the league's elite players and she has propelled the New York Liberty toward a strong finish in the regular season. Her record-breaking achievements and contributions in pivotal moments highlight the extraordinary talent and determination she brings to the court.
Breanna Stewart's continuous accumulation of awards is a testament to her consistent excellence and impact on the game. While she continues to shatter records, there remains one major goal for Breanna Stewart and the New York Liberty: bringing NYC its first championship.
The New York Liberty will host the Atlanta Dream, this Sunday for Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs.
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