In the 2024 WNBA season, rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark are making headlines as they compete for the top spot in the rookie rankings. Angel Reese, playing for the Chicago Sky, leads the league in offensive rebounds, showcasing her prowess on the boards. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever is making history with her scoring and playmaking abilities.
Angel Reese has been a standout for the Chicago Sky. As of July 6, 2024, Reese is averaging 10.6 points per game, 8.9 rebounds per game, and 1.9 assists per game. She leads the WNBA in offensive rebounds, with an impressive average of 5.0 per game. Reese’s ability to draw fouls is also notable, with 5.6 free throw attempts per game, ranking her sixth in the league. Her performance has been crucial in Chicago’s three early wins, especially in their 90-81 victory over New York on May 23, where she played a pivotal role by getting veteran forward Jonquel Jones in foul trouble early.
Caitlin Clark, on the other hand, has been a revelation for the Indiana Fever. Over the first 11 games of her WNBA career, Clark is averaging 15.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. She has become only the second rookie in WNBA history to score 150-plus points, grab 50-plus rebounds, and hand out 50-plus assists in her first 10 games, following in the footsteps of New York Liberty All-Star Sabrina Ionescu. Despite facing a rough transition due to the physical play in the league, Clark has adjusted well and continues to excel, showing her skills as one of the league’s best rebounding guards.
Reese and Clark’s performances highlight their immense potential and the bright future they have in the WNBA. Reese’s dominance in rebounding and ability to draw fouls make her a formidable force on the court, while Clark’s scoring and playmaking abilities set her apart as one of the most dynamic players in the league.
The competition between these two rookies is not only exciting for fans but also beneficial for their respective teams. The Chicago Sky, in the midst of a complete rebuild, have found a cornerstone player in Reese, whose contributions on both ends of the floor have been instrumental. The Indiana Fever, with Clark leading the charge, are witnessing a rookie who can significantly impact the game, both as a scorer and a facilitator.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark to see who will emerge as the top rookie of the 2024 WNBA season. Their performances so far have set a high bar, and their continued development will be fascinating to watch.