WNBA Rookie Rankings: Caitlin Clark Tops List Over Angel Reese
As the WNBA regular season wraps up, ESPN’s final rookie rankings highlight Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever as the standout rookie, surpassing Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky. Clark, the first overall pick from Iowa, has emerged as a transformative player, showcasing her scoring and playmaking abilities.
1. Caitlin Clark, G, Indiana Fever
**Win Shares:** 3.0
**PER Wins:** 5.2
**RAPTOR Wins:** 4.2
**Consensus Ranking:** 4.1
Clark’s post-All-Star break performance has been nothing short of remarkable, averaging 32.5 points per 100 possessions with a 60% true shooting percentage. Her assist rate of 39.7% reflects her ability to elevate her teammates, significantly improving the Fever’s offensive output. Before the break, Clark struggled with turnovers, but she has since drastically reduced them, helping the Fever transform from the sixth to the first-ranked offense in the league.
Her advanced metrics illustrate her impact: scoring in the 89th percentile and demonstrating elite passing abilities. Clark’s improvement has also altered perceptions, placing her among basketball legends known for their high usage but often criticized metrics. Heading into the playoffs, Clark will be tested against strong defenses, particularly facing the Connecticut Sun.
2. Angel Reese, F, Chicago Sky
**Win Shares:** 2.8
**PER Wins:** 3.9
**RAPTOR Wins:** 3.2
**Consensus Ranking:** 3.3
Reese, drafted seventh overall from LSU, had a stellar rookie season, characterized by a record-setting 26 double-doubles before her season was cut short by wrist surgery. She led the WNBA in rebounding rate and was a formidable scorer, contributing 21.3 points per 100 possessions. However, her true shooting percentage of 46.4% highlighted significant areas for growth, particularly in shot selection and spacing.
Despite her injuries, Reese’s defensive impact has been notable, with a strong on-off court differential. Her performance illustrates a unique mix of strengths and weaknesses, making her development a point of interest for her future in the league.
Final Thoughts
The rookie class of 2024 has left a lasting impression, with Clark and Reese standing out as the top performers. Clark’s rise to the top of the rankings is a testament to her adaptability and growth, while Reese’s potential remains vast despite her recent challenges. As both players prepare for their offseason, fans eagerly await their continued development in the upcoming seasons.
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