Sophia Smith didn't get enough praise for her results this season.

“I don’t think Sophia has gotten enough credit for how she’s played this season,” Wilkinson said. “She’s been excellent for us.”

Smith, a Thorns original who is in her fifth season with the club, has started all 17 games for the Thorns this season. She has scored two goals and tallied four assists. “She’s been one of our most consistent players,” Wilkinson said. “She’s a player that just does her job and does it well.”

Smith has been a key piece in the Thorns midfield this season, starting alongside Allie Long and Tobin Heath in the team’s best XI. She has also played an important role in the team’s attack, linking up well with Heath and Long to create chances.

The 22-year-old’s 16 goals are the most by an American in a single season, and her 40 points are second only to Kerr’s 44. Smith is also just the second player in NWSL history with at least 40 points and 10 assists in a single season, joining Portland Thorns legend Christine Sinclair.

In just her second season, Smith has already established herself as one of the best players in the NWSL. She’s a bona fide superstar in the making, and it’s only a matter of time before she’s lifting trophies with the Thorns. Sophia Smith is an incredible talent, and she deserves all the praise she’s getting.

“She’s a player that can play a number of different roles,” Wilkinson said. “She’s someone that we can rely on.” Smith will be an important player for the Thorns as they head into the playoffs.

“She’s a player that we’re going to need in the playoffs,” Wilkinson said. “She’s someone that we can count on.”