Angel Reese leads the race for WNBA Rookie of the Year despite Caitlin Clark’s early success with the Indiana Fever.
That’s the verdict of March Madness-winning South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, who has no doubt the Chicago Sky forward would get the award if it were decided now.
Reese and Clark are enjoying sensational rookie seasons in Chicago and Indiana respectively, with the former’s average of 11.8 rebounds per game a league-high.
Meanwhile, their archrival, the Fever, leads all rookies in points per game (16.8) and has already set numerous records, including becoming the first rookie to record 400 points, 150 assists and 100 rebounds.
However, when asked who he would name Rookie of the Year at this point, Staley named Reese as the clear winner.
Angel Reese (right) should be named Rookie of the Year ahead of Caitlin Clark (left), says South Carolina coach Dawn Staley
Staley says there’s “no question” Reese has been the WNBA’s best rookie this season
“They’re both having great years, don’t get me wrong,” the 54-year-old said. TMZ Sports.
‘If I had to pick a Rookie of the Year right now, today… it would be Angel. Without a doubt. (For) what she’s been able to do with the double-doubles.’
Opinion is divided over who leads the Rookie of the Year race two months into the regular season, with others insisting Clark’s strong form with the Fever makes her the favorite.
Conservative sportscaster Jason Whitlock believes the former Iowa college star has a better chance of coming out on top, saying of her high turnover rate in the Xs: “(Michael) Jordan wasn’t defended like Clark. Plus, he’s a risk-taker and gambler because he’s way more skilled than 97% of players.”
On Friday, Clark broke the Fever franchise record for most assists in a quarter (7) with nine in Indiana’s surprise 96-85 win over the Phoenix Mercury.
Reese and Clark are enjoying sensational seasons in Chicago and Indiana respectively.
Meanwhile, according to a national panel of voters that rates the Associated Press Power Poll each week, Clark leads Reese in the race for ROTY honors at the season’s midpoint.
Clark and Reese have gained national attention with record-setting rookie seasons, leading them to become the first rookie duo to make an All-Star team since 2014, so it’s no surprise they are leading candidates for the award.
The pair have helped the league achieve huge increases in ratings, attendance and merchandise sales, and with so much basketball still to be played, it can be argued that either would win the award.