Clap your hands if you're the WNBL MVP

Written By

Peter Brown

basketball.com.au

Sami Whitcomb of Bendigo Spirit acknowledges the fans after the team's victory in the round 12 WNBL match between Bendigo Spirit and Perth Lynx at Red Energy Arena, on January 15, 2025, in Bendigo. Photo: Mike Owen/Getty Images

Whitcomb on gold medal podium for WNBL25 MVP

Whitcomb is leading the dominant Bendigo Spirit in WNBL25
She put an exclamation mark on her MVP-calibre season against Perth
She recorded the WNBL's only triple double in 2024-25.

WNBA and Opals star Sami Whitcomb's dominance in the WNBL25 is undeniable. She has been nothing short of spectacular for the top-of-the-ladder Bendigo Spirit averaging 21.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game.

The 35-year-old Australian-American's efficiency is elite, shooting 46.9% from the field and an impressive 40.5% from three-point range on high volume with a quick release.

The Seattle Storm WNBA champion is undoubtedly the 2024-25 MVP in waiting. She is already four-time WNBL First Team member (2016-2018 and 2023) but this (will) should be her first MVP award.

Her fourth quarter eruption against second-placed Perth Lynx on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 was the final piece of evidence required to confirm her status as the best player in the league.

Sami Whitcomb is a more than 90% free throw shooter. Photo: Jason McCawley/Getty Images

She was was straight-up history-making against Perth in round 6 on Thursday, December 5, 2024, delivering a 17 points; 13 rebounds; and 10 assists triple double to lead the Bendigo Spirit to a tough, hard fought 72-66 win against Perth Lynx. WNBL triple doubles are rare, very rare.

Whitcomb's ability to maintain such high percentages while being the focal point of opposing defences speaks volumes about her skill level and mental toughness. Her 90.6% free throw percentage further underscores her shooting prowess and reliability in clutch situations.

She's launched 126 three-point attempts in just 16 games, averaging nearly eight attempts per game. This volume, combined with her 40.5%, makes her one of the most dangerous perimeter threats in WNBL history.

Whitcomb's all-around game is evident in her rebounding and assist numbers. At 6.9 rebounds per game, she's one of the best rebounding guards in the league, often outworking larger opponents on the glass. Her 4.9 assists per game demonstrate her willingness to create for others and her high basketball IQ in reading defences.

She leads the league in scoring, is fourth in assists, seventh in field goal percentage, fourth in three-point field goal percentage, first in free throw percentage (90.6%) and first in leadership.

Sami Whitcomb of the Spirit rips down one of her 13 rebounds in the historic triple double against Perth Lynx at Red Energy Arena on December 19, 2024 in Bendigo, Australia. Photo: Graham Denholm/Getty Images

Defensively, Whitcomb's impact is clear with 1.6 steals per game, using her quick hands and anticipation to disrupt opposing offences. This two-way ability makes her a complete player and a nightmare for opponents to game plan against.

Breaking down Whitcomb's box scores shows her consistency and ability to take over games are evident. Her 35-point outburst against the Townsville Fire on December 14, 2024 showcases her scoring potential, hitting 5-from-8 three-pointers and perfect from the free-throw line. Against Perth Lynx on January 15, 2025, she filled the stat sheet with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists.