In a groundbreaking recognition, WNBA rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark have been named to Sports Illustrated‘s list of the 50 Most Influential Athletes of 2024.
As noted by Sports Illustrated, Caitlin Clark, hailed as a “generational talent,” has taken the WNBA by storm as the No. 1 overall draft pick. She has already set impressive records, including the league’s rookie assist record and the single-season assists record.
As the front-runner for WNBA Rookie of the Year, she is also considered a strong MVP candidate, showcasing her prowess both individually and as a key player for the Indiana Fever.
Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever is presented the game ball after becoming the first rookie to score a triple double against the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 6, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
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On the other hand, Angel Reese has made headlines for her extraordinary performances, including setting a league record for the most consecutive double-doubles.
The Chicago Sky forward shattered the WNBA single-season rebounding record and became the first rookie in any American professional basketball team to achieve back-to-back 20-rebound games since NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal did so in 1993.
Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky tries to make a move to the basket against Temi Fagbenle #14 of the Indiana Fever during the first half at Wintrust Arena on August 30, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
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Together, Reese and Clark are not only elevating their teams and building their personal brands, but reshaping perceptions of women in sports and paving the way for future stars.
Other athletes listed among Sports Illustrated’s 50 Most Influential athletes include LeBron James, Simone Biles, Patrick Mahomes, Lewis Hamilton, Victor Wembanyama, A’ja Wilson, Anthony Edwards, Travis Hunter, Flaujae Johnson, and Juju Watkins.
