Marina Mabrey, a lesser-known figure to casual sports enthusiasts, recently made a significant impact in the WNBA with her exceptional shooting performance. Despite not being as widely recognized as other WNBA stars, Mabrey equaled the league’s scoring record by putting up an impressive 53 points in a game against Los Angeles. Known for her accuracy from beyond the arc, the 6-foot-1 guard, nicknamed “Money Mabrey,” showcased her prowess by sinking nine 3-pointers and finishing 17 of 28 from the field. This achievement places her just outside the top 20 all-time in WNBA history, having successfully made 500 3-pointers throughout her career.
Reflecting on her remarkable performance, Mabrey expressed her surprise and joy at the overwhelming support from fans who chanted “MVP.” She credited her success to her exceptional shooting skills, stating, “I think tonight was just my night from the three-point line, and from honestly everywhere.”
Mabrey’s accomplishment of scoring 53 points in a single game puts her in the elite company of A’ja Wilson and Liz Cambage as the only players to achieve this feat. Toronto coach Sandy Brondello, amazed by Mabrey’s performance, acknowledged that he had never witnessed such a remarkable display of skill on the court.
Having played for five different WNBA teams since being drafted in 2019, Mabrey’s journey in the league has been marked by perseverance and determination. Despite not being a first-round draft pick, she has excelled with the Tempo, currently ranking fourth in the league for scoring with an average of 21.2 points per game.
Throughout her career, Mabrey has consistently improved her performance, setting new personal records and making a strong case for her inclusion in the All-Star team. Her competitive nature and self-accountability are evident in her unique approach to maintaining discipline on and off the court, as showcased by her “crash out jar” concept.
Mabrey’s basketball journey began at Notre Dame, where she achieved numerous accolades, including leading the school in 3-pointers made and graduating as the ninth-highest scorer in the program’s history. This impressive background has laid the foundation for Mabrey’s success in the WNBA, as she continues to make her mark on the league with her exceptional talent and dedication.