2. Angel Reese
The seventh overall pick has outperformed all expectations. She broke the WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles and was an All-Star in year one. The 6’3 forward is on pace to grab more rebounds than anyone in the W’s history, but A’ja Wilson jumped slightly ahead just before the break. Reese has been outstanding and has the Sky holding the final playoff position.
The Bayou Barbie leads all rookies in win shares and win shares per 40 minutes. The advanced metrics favor her over Caitlin Clark, and Reese is bringing new popularity to the league. They are the two highest-selling jerseys and already All-Stars. Reese brings on and off the floor.
Reese is a game-changing rebounder and finisher inside. Over her last 14 contests, the 22-year-old averaged 14.9 points, 13.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals in 33.5 minutes per game. She keeps getting better and is helping her team win. Reese is focused on getting the Sky to the playoffs and taking her game to another level.
Angel Reese is making the Rookie of the Year race closer than anybody expected, but she cannot quite top Clark. They are both setting records and changing the W, but Clark’s versatility gives her a distinct edge.