It’s been an extraordinary week for the WNBA’s newest stars. Highlighted by All-Star selections and a groundbreaking docuseries announcement, the rookies are making waves. Here’s a detailed look at the rising talents in the league:
Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever
Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s top draft pick, continues to impress in her debut season. Garnering the highest number of votes for the All-Star game with 700,735, Clark is proving her mettle on the court. Despite a tough schedule that saw the Fever play 11 games in 20 days and start with five consecutive losses, the team has rebounded to an 8-13 record. Clark is leading the team in assists (7.1) and steals (1.3), while also averaging 16 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Notably, she ranks third in the league for assists per game, trailing only Alyssa Thomas (7.5) and Natasha Cloud (7.4). In a recent victory against Phoenix, Clark nearly achieved a triple-double, recording 15 points, 12 assists, and 9 rebounds despite a challenging shooting performance.
However, turnovers remain a significant hurdle for Clark, who tops the league with 5.6 turnovers per game, far ahead of the next player, Alyssa Thomas, with 3.9 per game.
Angel Reese, Chicago Sky
Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky is another rookie making headlines, securing her spot in the All-Star game with 381,518 votes. Reese is riding high on an 11-game double-double streak, setting a new WNBA single-season record previously held by Candace Parker. Reese’s recent performance against Indiana, where she scored a career-high 25 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, underscores her growing prowess. She leads the league in rebounds per game (11.8) and offensive rebounds per game (4.8), showcasing her dominance on the boards. Despite her efficiency around the rim being a work in progress, with a current shooting percentage of 39.7%, there’s been marked improvement from her 35.4% at the start of June.
Shaina Pellington, Washington Mystics
For the Washington Mystics, Shaina Pellington has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season. Despite the team’s 0-12 start, Pellington has displayed veteran-like poise, thanks to her international experience, including competing in the Tokyo Olympics. Averaging 8.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1 block per game with a shooting percentage of 48.3%, Pellington has shown flashes of brilliance. Her standout performance came in a win over Chicago, where she scored 16 points on 85.7% shooting, coupled with 9 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2 assists, and 1 steal.
Rickea Jackson, Los Angeles Sparks
In Los Angeles, Rickea Jackson is showing resilience despite the Sparks’ struggles. With a 4-15 record and a roster hit by injuries, Jackson has managed to shine. She averages 10.2 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, with shooting percentages of 46.8% from the field and 34.2% from three-point range. Jackson’s adaptability, honed by her college career with multiple teams and coaches, has been crucial. Even during the team’s eight-game losing streak, she has consistently delivered, scoring in double digits five times and achieving a double-double against Minnesota.
Off the Court: Year 1 Docuseries
Off the court, the excitement continues with the upcoming docuseries “Year 1,” which will follow rookies like Jackson, Reese, Nika Mühl, and Kamilla Cardoso. This series promises to give fans an inside look at the trials and triumphs of their rookie seasons. Cardoso, playing for the Chicago Sky, and Mühl, with the Seattle Storm, have also been making their marks, with Cardoso averaging 8.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
The future looks bright for these WNBA rookies as they continue to navigate their first professional year with skill, determination, and a growing fan base.
