Caitlin Clark wins Rookie of the Year, snubbed from deserved distinction

The Indiana Fever are back in contention because of Caitlin Clark. The number one draft pick broke several WNBA records, led her team to the playoffs, and brought millions of fresh fans to the league. It was an incredible season that had to end with Rookie of the Year honors.

The WNBA made it official on Oct. 3, but Clark knew ahead of their playoff game in Connecticut. Shams Charania leaked the winners of the league’s four major awards on Sept. 27, but many were awaiting the official tally.

Clark won and everyone was pumped. It was a historic season that proved she is already one of the W’s best. The 22-year-old deserved a special distinction, but she was unable to land it.

Caitlin Clark wins Rookie of the Year, ends 1 vote from unanimous selection

Clark got 66 of the 67 first-place votes with Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese getting one nod. There have only been four unanimous WNBA Rookies of the Year since the first award in 1998. Aliyah Boston received it in 2023 to join A’ja Wilson, Elena Della Donne, and Tina Charles.

It was disappointing she was not a unanimous selection, but Clark is the top rookie and a member of the All-Rookie first-team. Those are just more honors from a fantastic opening season. Her teammates all congratulated her.

The 22-year-old is ready for year two. She will be working on her game this offseason, but has not announced plans to play in another league. The Fever had the best offense in the W after the Olympic break with Clark leading the show. Expect them to be elite, but Indiana needs a bit more talent to compete against the best teams.

The Fever will have a top-eight draft choice, assets to trade, and cap space this summer. There will be talent available. It is on Indiana’s front office to find the right pieces and build a serious contender around Caitlin Clark. She will again lead the W in assists and more records will fall. The Rookie of the Year is just getting started.

The Indiana Fever are just beginning a crucial offseason. Caitlin Clark is the centerpiece, but who does the franchise put around her? Keeping Kelsey Mitchell and adding talent are musts. Clark finished fourth in MVP voting in 2024 and figures to be in the mix in 2025. The best is yet to come, and everyone should be excited. The Fever are officially back.