Following a rookie season in which she played a total of 39 minutes in just eight total appearances, Bridget Carleton is redefining herself in an impressive sophomore campaign.

Drafted by the Connecticut Sun in 2019, Carleton played four games with the team before being released in July of that summer, allowing the Minnesota Lynx to sign her in August. In her four lone appearances with the Lynx last season, Carleton averaged 2.8 MPG and 0.8 PPG. This season, however, it’s a different story entirely for the former Iowa State star.

Playing in all 17 of the team’s contests in 2020, Carleton has started in 10, averaging 24.8 minutes, 6.6 points, and 3.3 rebounds per game. In her first-ever WNBA start on August 5, No. 6 propelled Minnesota to a victory with 25 points, seven boards, and three assists becoming the third player in the past two decades to net at least 25 points, five boards, and three assists in their first career start.

Carleton’s improvement on the court has been undeniable, and in turn, she’s become a key contributor in Minnesota’s rotation. As the debate for the WNBA’s 2020 Most Improved Player award heats up, Bridget Carleton has certainly earned her place in the conversation.