Angel Reese is making waves in her rookie season with the Chicago Sky, leading the WNBA in double-doubles. Stephen A. Smith has taken notice and is advocating for her to receive the Rookie of the Year award. During a segment on First Take, Smith expressed his admiration for Reese’s performance, stating, “Angel Reese, she may be Rookie of the Year. She’s special. Let me tell you this right now, I don’t care what anybody says, because she can play, she’s no scrub, she’s a walking double-double. Marketing ability matters, and if you can have that girl on the team, make sure you do it, because that’s going to elevate the popularity of the sport, and a rising tide lifts all boats.”
Reese, along with Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark, has been the primary contender for the Rookie of the Year title. However, many believe Reese has the upper hand. Since being drafted by the Chicago Sky, Reese has excelled, particularly in the paint. She has maintained a double-double streak for 15 consecutive games, surpassing former WNBA star Candace Parker’s record for most consecutive double-doubles in a season. Reese currently leads the WNBA with 17 double-doubles and is on track to break Tina Charles’ rookie record of 22 in a season.
Reese’s dominance extends to offensive rebounds, where she leads the league with 4.7 per game. She is second only to A’ja Wilson in overall rebounding, placing her in elite company. Reese’s teammates are also vocal about her deserving the Rookie of the Year award. Chennedy Carter praised her after Reese’s 12th double-double, saying, “Barbie’s Rookie of the Year. There’s no other way to put it. She goes out, she does her work every single night, no matter what team we’re facing. I’m telling you, Barbie’s Rookie of the Year, for sure.”
The Chicago Sky’s unexpected competitiveness this season, marked by a 10-14 record and a playoff spot contention, can be attributed to Reese’s contributions. While Reese has a strong case for the Rookie of the Year award, Caitlin Clark is also a formidable competitor, leading her team towards a playoff berth. The comparison between Reese and Clark has persisted since their college days, adding to the intrigue of this year’s rookie race.
As the WNBA season progresses, all eyes will be on Reese and Clark to see who will ultimately secure the Rookie of the Year title. Reese’s consistent performance and record-breaking feats have made her a standout player, while Clark’s efforts to lead her team are equally impressive. The final stretch of the season will determine which rookie will rise above the other and take home the coveted award.
