2 weeks Ago
The rookie seasons of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have been revolutionary for the WNBA, garnering massive attention from full-house arenas to soaring television ratings. Clark, playing for the Indiana Fever, has shattered multiple rookie records. This includes the highest single-season score with 761 points and achieving the first triple-double by a rookie in WNBA history.
On the other hand, Reese set a new league record for single-season rebounds with 446 (since surpassed by Aces' star A'ja Wilson) before a wrist injury cut her season with the Chicago Sky short. Clark's assured approach to the playoffs has become a focal point, as the Fever secured their first playoff berth in eight years. “Once we get there, I think it’ll feel a little more real and, obviously, we’re not just happy to be there,” Clark said.
Although Reese's season ended prematurely, she achieved numerous milestones, such as being the first rookie to record a double-double in an All-Star Game and setting a new WNBA rookie record with 24 double-doubles for the season. Her commanding presence on the boards and her overall performance have made her a strong contender for Rookie of the Year, even as the Sky's playoff chances have diminished in her absence. © Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images Lindsay Allen, a seasoned player for the Sky, commended the significant impact that Clark and Reese have had on the league this year, describing their performances as "phenomenal.
" Allen highlighted the exceptional basketball talent displayed across the WNBA, particularly underscoring Reese's record-setting season with the Sky. “Watching the basketball that’s been played this season and the talent that’s been on the floor across the league, it’s been phenomenal,” Allen said to Doug Feinberg of The Associated Press. “The two rookies, Caitlin and Angel — Angel has been huge for us and has been setting records.
The basketball has been at a very, very high level and the interest has been, too.” Allen's recognition of Clark and Reese's significant influence highlights the rookie class's role in enhancing the WNBA's prominence and audience involvement. The rookies have sparked conversations ranging from their gameplay to cultural impact, captivating fans similarly to the legendary NBA rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson.
Their emergence has significantly contributed to the league's expansion, attracting unprecedented levels of fan participation and engagement. Related: Indiana Fever Veteran Reveals How Caitlin Clark Ignores Haters.
