2021/22 ROBYN MAHER DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
After a dominant first season on Australian soil, the UC Capitals’ star import, Brittney Sykes has been named the Robyn Maher Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY).
Taking the WNBL by storm, Sykes’ impact was imminent. After being named in the 2021 WNBA All-Defensive First Team and leading steals, Sykes’ defensive form was at her career-best. Claiming the WNBL Golden Hands award (steals + assists – turnovers), averaging 5.19 over her 16 games played, the addition of a player of Sykes caliber to the UC Capitals’ lineup has been a key factor to their regular-season success and run at finals.
Nominated alongside four strong competitors; the 2020 DPOY and season MVP, Steph Talbot, Kalani Purcell, Jackie Young and Steph Reid, Sykes topped the vote count on 30 and polled in first place on eight occasions.
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When making the decision to join the WNBL for the 21/22 season, Sykes’ mindset was to be the best defender in the competition.
“It’s honestly an honour to win this award. Coming into the WNBL I set a goal to be the DPOY of this league, especially after coming short of the award in the WNBA,” Sykes told WNBL Media.
“My teammates and coaches believed in me since day one that I could accomplish this goal. I couldn’t have done it without their support and trust. I’m truly thankful for this moment in my career and in the WNBL.”
Fans haven’t seen the last of Sykes for the season, with the DPOY and the UC Capitals set to host Perth Lynx in Game 2 of the semi-finals series.
Tally breakdown:
Brittney Sykes: 30
Kalani Purcell: 24
Steph Talbot: 14
Jackie Young: 7
Steph Reid: 6
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