WNBA rookie rankings: Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso becoming Chicago Sky’s backbone

The 2024 WNBA rookie class was highly anticipated in league history. They have met and even exceeded expectations so far. With less than a week until the All-Star break, the race for Rookie of the Year between Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese is shaping up to be one of the closest in years.

“It’s tight. That’s for sure,” New York Liberty coach Sandy Brondello said. “They’re both wonderful players for their respective teams. That’s a hard one. You guys (with media votes) are going to be naming that, aren’t you? Good luck with that.”

Brondello’s Liberty has faced both players in the last week, with a loss to Indiana and a win on Thursday. “They’re both impacting their team in a massive way,” she said.

The official award won’t be decided until mid-September, but as the All-Star and Olympic break approaches, here is how the rookies stack up. This week’s rookie rankings do not reflect my current all-rookie team ballot, but gauge how rookies have performed since July 5. (All stats through Wednesday.)

No. 1 Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever

16.7 PPG | 7.6 APG | 5.9 RPG

Clark had an outstanding week, putting up impressive numbers against the New York Liberty and Washington Mystics, including a triple-double. She has been consistently performing at a high level and the Rookie of the Year race is expected to be close throughout the season.

2. Angel Reese, Chicago Sky

14.0 PPG | 11.9 RPG | 41.9 FG%

Reese has been excelling in recent games and is settling into her role with the Chicago Sky. Her performance on the court has been impressive and she continues to improve with each game.

This was the reaction inside Barclays Center just after Reese picked up her 10th rebound.

The crowd here in Brooklyn gave Reese a similarly loud ovation as she checked out of the game. https://t.co/DqOnCsIwMI pic.twitter.com/bpTYi5Ci9L

— Ben Pickman (@benpickman) July 12, 2024

Rickea Jackson

Jackson continues to be a key player for the Sparks, contributing both offensively and defensively. She has shown improvement and potential for even more growth in her game.

Kamilla Cardoso

Cardoso has been a reliable player for the Sky, using her height and skills to make an impact on both ends of the court. She continues to show confidence and potential for future success.

You can’t teach 6’7, folks#skytown pic.twitter.com/XY1kx66hDo

— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) July 10, 2024

Jacy Sheldon

Sheldon has started to play a more prominent role for the Wings, showing improvement and becoming a bright spot for the team. Her recent performances have been impressive and she continues to grow as a player.

Also considered: Aaliyah Edwards (Washington Mystics), Leonie Fiebich (New York Liberty), Julie Vanloo (Mystics), Alissa Pili (Minnesota Lynx)

(Photo of Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso: Randy Belice / NBAE via Getty Images)