The WNBA to NBA comparisons happen more often than some would like to admit. But for Phoenix Mercury rookie Jovana Nogic, she's living up to the hype of being extremely flashy.
Her play style reminds people of an NBA Hall-of-Fame player. Safe to say, Nogic feels the same way.
“Definitely Magic Johnson. That's my favorite player,” Nogic explained via Shane Young of Mercury.com after the team's 78-72 win over the Portland Fire on Friday.
It might be a stretch, but watching her game would tell a different story. Wrap-around passes, near full-court outlet passes, and simply knowing where her teammates are two to three plays before they happen are things Phoenix has needed.
Many of her Magic Johnson-esque plays come courtesy of the pick-and-roll with center Natasha Mack. It usually ends in some whirling dervish pass, or a no-look that the center is ready for.
Even as the Mercury had a star-studded injury report before Friday's game, Nogic was forced into a more offensive game. She ran the floor, along with standout defensive guard Monique Akoa Makani.
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The two were the ultimate complement to one another in the win and gave a clear promise of what the game can look like without Copper and Thomas on the floor.
Nonetheless, the Serbian's elevated play doesn't come as much of a surprise. After Nogic broke Mercury records to start the season, she's cooled down.
The shooting numbers are still at a historic high, with shooting 44% from deep and nearly 90% from the charity stripe. Those are impressive, but it's the passing that leaves everyone in awe.
Phoenix will take on the Golden State Valkyries on Tuesday, and Nogic might resemble more of that NBA Hall-of-Fame guard if she gets another starting nod.
The WNBA to NBA comparisons happen more often than some would like to admit. But for Phoenix Mercury rookie Jovana Nogic, she's living up to the hype of being extremely flashy. Her play style reminds people of an NBA Hall-of-Fame player. Safe to say, Nogic feels the same way. “Definitely Magic Johnson.