Interest in the WNBA has reached a level it’s never seen through its 27 years of existence. This season has been like none other, and the rookie class, led by Indiana Fever guard and 2024 No. 1 overall pick Caitlin Clark, plays a massive part in that.

Clark has taken the women’s game to another level. In a short period of time, she’s sent shockwaves through the game of basketball, and she is just getting started. Clark’s rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular. Her stats and impact on the game and her team have been vital to the turnaround after a slow start to the season.

While Clark is the star of the league as a rookie, a fellow rookie has climbed up the ranks regarding Rookie of the Year: Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese. Reese has made a name for herself in the professional league, so much so that many, including ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, believe that she deserves to be named Rookie of the Year.

Caitlin Clark Angel Resse

Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky reacts after fouling Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 16, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. ESPN ananlyst Stephen A….  PHOTO BY EMILEE CHINN/GETTY IMAGES
Smith was blunt when discussing why Reese deserves the award over Clark as things stand.

“Reese is the only player in WNBA history with three consecutive 20-rebound games. I’ve talked about Caitlin Clark — I love the sizzle, I love the ball-handling, I love the passing ability, I love the shot-making ability. But let’s give credit where credit is due: Angel Reese is showing she’s no joke either. I think she could win Rookie of the Year.”

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Both Clark and Reese have set records this season. Clark set the WNBA record with 19 assists in a single game, and she’s the first rookie in league history to record a triple-double. As for Reese, she set a WNBA record with 15 consecutive double-doubles and set another record with three consecutive games recording 20 or more rebounds.

The two have a long history dating back to their college days. Their teams have met each other twice in college, when the stakes were at their highest in the NCAA tournament. Their teams — LSU for Reese, Iowa for Clark — split the two games.

The rivalry doesn’t stop there, and it will only continue to grow as their professional careers continue. The two will face off once again on Friday as Reese’s Chicago Sky faces Clark’s Fever, and this matchup could go a long way toward the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year award.

Clark is averaging 18.0 points per game, 5.7 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.4 steals in 31 games. Resse is averaging 13.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in 30 games.