Yesterday marked the fourth timeCaitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever (16-16) and Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky (11-20) faced off in the WNBA, with Clark leading her team to a commanding 100-81 victory. Clark, who was the number one pick in this year’s draft, has been a game-changer since that historic event, which was the most-watched draft in WNBA history, drawing 2.4 million viewers-a 307% increase over 2023. This surge in popularity has been a turning point for the league, which has continued to break records, from the most-watched All-Star game to record-breaking merchandise sales and social media interactions. The league has even seen more sold-out arenas, with some teams moving to larger venues to accommodate the growing fanbase.
A Historic Year for Rookies
These numbers reflect the incredible impact that rookies like Clark and Reese have had on the WNBA, both in terms of their on-court performance and their influence on the league’s popularity. The records they’ve shattered set a high bar for future generations, while also challenging the veteran players, sending a clear message that these rookies are the real deal.
Clark’s Record-Breaking Season
Clark’s offensive style of play has her leading all rookies in points (18.4), minutes (35.3), assists (8.3), and field goals made (184). Among her most impressive records are: the most assists in a game (19); being the first rookie to record a triple-double in WNBA history and in Fever history; the only rookie with multiple games of 20+ points and 10+ assists in a season (10); most three-pointers made by a rookie; and the most games with 10 assists in a rookie season (10), surpassing the previous record of (8). Additionally, she leads the WNBA in assists (8.3), ranks second in minutes (35.3), and is ninth in points (18.4).The Fever are heating up at the right time, winning five of their last six games and seven of their last ten, with Clark on the verge of leading them to their first playoff appearance since 2016.
Reese’s Record-Breaking Season
On the other hand, Reese has a more defensive focus compared to Clark. While she has struggled with her field goal percentage, her presence in the paint is already feared by opponents. Some of her most notable records include: most consecutive double-doubles by any player with 15; her 12.9 RPG is the highest ever averaged in WNBA history; first player with three consecutive 20+ rebound games; 10+ rebounds in 23 straight games (breaking the previous record of 12); and she is on pace to be the first player to surpass 500 rebounds in a season. However, the Sky has struggled, going 2-8 in their last 10 games and holding onto the eighth and final playoff spot, with the battle for the last playoff spots likely to be between Chicago Sky (11-20), Atlanta Dream (10-21), and Washington Mystics (9-22).
These record-breaking performances are driving the league’s rising profile and inspiring future generations. As we head into the playoffs, expect to see Clark continuing to shatter records, while Reese will fight to lead her team into the postseason, though their path is more challenging.
