Sika Koné, the New York Liberty’s No. 29 overall selection in the 2022 WNBA Draft, has showcased strong frontcourt play between the 2022 FIBA World Cup with Mali and first three months of the LF Endesa with her longtime club, Spar Gran Canaria.
Currently, the 20-year-old forward is averaging an impressive 16.5 points and 12.9 rebounds per contest, having amassed a total of 11 double-doubles and 15 double-figure scoring contests in as many games.
Through seven LF Endesa games in the month of December, Sika averaged 16.1 points and 12.7 rebounds per contest on a combined 54.4% (43-79) from the floor.
Koné entered December fresh off a performance for the LF Endesa history books after posting 26 points and 17 rebounds while shooting a lights out 81.8% (9-11) from the field and 100% (8-8) from the line.
Sika’s combined points and rebounds (43) marked the league’s highest total over the past five seasons, earning her the MVP Award for Week 8; her second consecutive honor and eleventh of her career in Spain.
To open the month, Koné tallied 15 points and eight boards, four of which were on the offensive glass, as well as a trio of assists.
On December 4, she posted a game-altering performance of 22 points and 12 rebounds on 61.5% (8-13) from the field, lifting Gran Canaria to an 82-80 victory against Bembibre.
Continuing the winning wave, the Liberty’s 2022 draftee secured a double-double, finishing with 17 points and 11 boards on an efficient 70% (7-10) from the field in a 68-52 victory over Ensino.
The next two contests saw Sika record another two double-doubles when she tallied 21 points and 16 rebounds on December 17, followed by her season-best rebounding performance when she secured 21 total, eight of which were on the offensive glass, alongside 16 points on December 22.
Despite Valencia’s defense snapping her double-double streak, Koné still managed to extend her double-digit streak 14 games on December 27 when she totaled 10 points and seven boards.
To close her strong December slate in Spain, Sika powered Gran Canaria to an 88-77 win against Barça CBS behind her 12-point, 17-rebound performance.
The impactful stretch of performances has earned Sika the Libs Abroad Presented by Withings December Player of the Month—her first monthly honor.
For more information on Libs Abroad Presented by Withings, including upcoming games, up-to-date statistics/standings, weekly recaps, and monthly player features, please visit nyliberty.com throughout the 2022-23 WNBA off-season.