Everyone often credits Sabrina Ionescu with the New York Liberty’s biggest wins. And for the right reasons. But sometimes, the offense is not everything. Sometimes, it’s the defensive plays that tip the scales in a game, and that was definitely the case in the recent matchup between the Liberty and the Las Vegas Aces. While Ionescu might have been the one catching everyone’s attention, the head coach, Sandy Brondello, thinks otherwise. 

She highlighted someone a bit under the radar, someone who has also been a bench player for most of the games for New York: Kayla Thornton. With just 9 points in the game, the NY Liberty forward was called the ‘X-factor.’ The coach was full of praise for the 31-year-old, and it wasn’t just about scoring buckets. Brondello explained her decision.

Kayla Thornton drops ‘big points’

“She was excellent tonight,” the Liberty HC emphasized. She pointed to the exact qualities that Thornton brought to the court, especially when the team needed to adjust due to Betnijah Laney-Hamilton’s injury. She pressed that it’s Thornton’s physicality, her hustle on defense and that unyielding toughness that truly helps her stand out. 

“Defensively, we know what she does,” the 1999 WNBA All-Star said, in the postgame press conference, “it’s about her making plays and bringing energy, especially on defense.” The coach even revealed that the Liberty designed some plays specifically for the star, which paid off when she grabbed those nine ‘big points,’ while also collecting 7 rebounds and 2 steals. It wasn’t an easy game, especially against a team as powerful as the Aces. 

The Liberty managed to score 88 points and it was Kayla Thornton’s defensive pressure that made a huge difference. The 31-year-old, playing 25 minutes, forced the Aces into uncomfortable situations, and her ability to switch on multiple players was key. She also added 4 offensive rebounds, creating second-chance opportunities. 

How has the season so far been for the New York Liberty star?

Many would believe that Thornton has been one of those players who consistently gives their best on both ends of the court. With an average of 8.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game this season, you might wonder what’s so special.  Well, stats don’t always tell the whole story. Her contributions go beyond the numbers—she’s that versatile defender who can guard multiple positions.

The WNBA star’s defensive rating of 97.6 is one of the best on the team. Throughout the season, Thornton has had some standout performances, too. For instance, in her game against Dallas in August, she stepped up with 16 points and 5 rebounds, leading the team to a much-needed victory. 

Her 3-point shooting percentage of 34.5% and 1.2 steals per game average has also given the NY Liberty more flexibility on offense. This clearly allows them to stretch the floor and create open driving lanes for players like Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart. This proves that basketball is truly a team sport. And without players like Thornton, who bring that extra hustle, the sweet taste of victory might not be possible.