As is tradition here, we like to reflect on the year that was by scouring through New York’s cast of characters to rank the top athletes of the year.
That means with 2023 drawing to a close, our list bumps up to 23 featuring stars from 11 different teams in and near the Big Apple.
amNewYork’s Top 23 athletes of 2023
23) Ilya Sorokin, Goalie, New York Islanders
Sorokin finished second in the Vezina Trophy, given to the best goalie in the NHL, back in June — a season in which he led all of hockey with six shutouts to go with a .924 save percentage and a 2.34 goals-against average. That’s why he squeaks on this list despite a regression during the first three months of the 2023-24 season. While facing an onslaught of shots, he’s 10-4-7 with a .914 save percentage, 3.09 goals-against average, and two shutouts.
22) John Tolkin, Defender, New York Red Bulls
The 21-year-old is one of the bright young stars of American soccer. He broke into the United States Men’s National Team and came in at No. 6 on Major League Soccer’s 22 Under 22 this year. Appearing in 27 MLS matches, Tolkin recorded three goals and six assists.
21) Sabrina Ionescu, Guard, New York Liberty
Ionescu earned her second-career All-Star nod in 2023 behind 17 points per game that is predicated on her lethal three-point shooting. She shot 44.8% from downtown this year, which ranked No. 3 in the WNBA, and her 128 three-pointers made ranked No. 1. Her long-distance prowess was on full display during the WNBA All-Star weekend when she scored 37 out of a possible 40 points to set a competition record across both the NBA and WNBA.
20) Quinnen Williams, Defensive Tackle, New York Jets
The anchor of the Jets’ defensive line, Williams’ pass-rushing has taken a step back from a remarkable 2022 season in which he posted 12 sacks. He has 3.5 this season, but already has more tackles (56) to go with eight tackles for loss, 18 QB hits, one forced fumble, and one safety.
19) Cam…
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