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Angel Reese announces her season is over as Caitlin Clark rookie of the year race may now be decided

Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Sep 19, 2024
In Short

Angel Reese announces her season is over, which may have decided the Caitlin Clark rookie of the year race. Angel Reese has ended her season due to a wrist injury, significantly impacting the WNBA Rookie of the Year race. This development makes Caitlin Clark the clear frontrunner for the award, as Reese's injury impact on WNBA Rookie of the Year chances is substantial.

Impact of Angel Reese's injury on the Rookie of the Year race

Reese's season-ending injury

  • Angel Reese announces her season is over: Reese suffered a season-ending wrist injury on September 1, 2024, in a game against the Los Angeles Sparks, cutting short her outstanding rookie season
  • Injury details: Reese's injury required surgery to repair a small crack in a bone, with a 4-week hard cast followed by a 2-week removable soft cast
  • Recovery plans: During her recovery, Reese will focus on training and conditioning, including lifting, running, and working on her off-hand skills

Reese's impressive rookie season statistics

  • Record-breaking performance: Reese set WNBA rookie records with 15 consecutive games with a double-double, 26 double-double games, 446 rebounds (WNBA single-season record), and 172 offensive rebounds (WNBA single-season record)
  • Season averages: Reese averaged 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.5 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game
  • Efficiency: Reese maintained a 39.1% field goal percentage and a 73.6% free throw percentage

Caitlin Clark frontrunner for WNBA Rookie of the Year after Reese injury

Clark's 2024 WNBA performance

  • Draft status: Caitlin Clark was selected as the 1st overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever
  • Position and physical attributes: Clark is a 6-0, 152 lbs guard for the Indiana Fever (#22)
  • Statistical availability: Clark's 2024 WNBA stats are available on the WNBA's official website, including traditional, advanced, and miscellaneous statistics

Clark's collegiate achievements

  • Career stats: Clark's collegiate career stats include 28.4 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 8.2 APG, and a 46.2 FG% from 2022-2024
  • Accolades: Clark earned numerous accolades, including 3x Big Ten Player of the Year (2022-2024), AP Player of the Year (2023), and Naismith College Player of the Year (2023)
  • NCAA leadership: Clark led the NCAA in scoring twice (2021, 2022) and assists twice (2022, 2023) during her collegiate career at Iowa

Impact on team performance

Chicago Sky without Reese

  • Playoff implications: The Sky (13-22) are trying to hold onto the final playoff spot in the WNBA without Reese
  • Strategic adjustments: Reese's absence forces teammates and coaches to adapt quickly, rethink strategies, and make adjustments to compensate
  • Opportunities for others: The injury provides an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their abilities

Indiana Fever with Clark

  • Rookie impact: Clark's performance as the first overall draft pick is likely to have a significant impact on the Indiana Fever's season
  • Statistical tracking: The WNBA's official stats website allows for detailed tracking of Clark's performance, including comparisons to her career and previous seasons

FAQ

What happened to Angel Reese's season?

Angel Reese announced her season is over due to a season-ending wrist injury suffered on September 1, 2024, in a game against the Los Angeles Sparks. The injury required surgery to repair a small crack in a bone, with a 4-week hard cast followed by a 2-week removable soft cast.

How does Angel Reese's injury impact the WNBA Rookie of the Year race?

Angel Reese's injury has a significant impact on the WNBA Rookie of the Year race, as it effectively removes her from contention. This development makes Caitlin Clark the clear frontrunner for the award, as Reese was considered a strong competitor based on her record-breaking rookie season performance.

What were Angel Reese's notable achievements before her injury?

Before her injury, Angel Reese set WNBA rookie records with 15 consecutive games with a double-double, 26 double-double games, 446 rebounds (WNBA single-season record), and 172 offensive rebounds (WNBA single-season record). She averaged 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.5 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game.

Why is Caitlin Clark now considered the frontrunner for WNBA Rookie of the Year?

Caitlin Clark is now considered the frontrunner for WNBA Rookie of the Year after Angel Reese's injury because of her impressive collegiate achievements, including being a 3-time Big Ten Player of the Year and AP Player of the Year, as well as her status as the 1st overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft. Her performance with the Indiana Fever is likely to solidify her position as the top rookie.

How does Angel Reese's injury affect the Chicago Sky's playoff chances?

Angel Reese's injury significantly impacts the Chicago Sky's playoff chances. The team (13-22) is trying to hold onto the final playoff spot in the WNBA without Reese. Her absence forces teammates and coaches to adapt quickly, rethink strategies, and make adjustments to compensate for her loss, while also providing opportunities for other players to step up.