The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race is heating up. Will Caitlin Clark or Angel Reese take the crown—or is a surprise contender closing in?
The battle for WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting storylines of the season. From buzzer-beaters to record-breaking crowds, this rookie class is redefining what it means to be new to the league. At the center of the conversation? Two names: Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese—college rivals turned professional game-changers.
With fans glued to every stat, highlight reel, and hot take on WNBA Twitter, this isn’t just a race for an award—it’s a movement that’s pulling in new fans, boosting viewership, and bringing women’s basketball in 2025 to new heights. But is the winner already decided? Not so fast.
Let’s break down the frontrunners, key stats, and possible surprise picks for this season’s top rookie honor.
Why the 2025 WNBA Rookie Class Is Different
This year’s rookies aren’t just contributing—they’re driving the narrative. The hype has translated into real performance and league-changing momentum.
- TV ratings are up 43% from last season
- Rookies dominate top-selling jerseys
- Social media mentions for WNBA rookies have quadrupled since May
Fans aren’t just watching—they’re invested.
Caitlin Clark: The Front-Runner with Star Power
Stats (as of July 30, 2025):
- Team: Indiana Fever
- PPG: 21.5
- APG: 7.2
- 3PT%: 40.1%
- Viewership Impact: Games featuring Clark average 1.6 million viewers
Clark has redefined what it means to be a rookie. From no-look dimes to 30-foot bombs, she’s made Indiana a must-watch team.
Her signature moments include:
- A 32-point, 10-assist night vs. the Aces
- Hitting the game-winner in overtime against the Liberty
- Leading all rookies in endorsement deals, including Nike and Gatorade
Her game isn’t just flashy—it’s efficient. And that’s why she’s still the top pick for ROTY.
Angel Reese: The Rebounding Queen Making History
Stats (as of July 30, 2025):
- Team: Chicago Sky
- PPG: 15.6
- RPG: 11.8 (1st among all players)
- Double-Doubles: 17 (leads the league)
Angel Reese isn’t chasing clout—she’s racking up boards.
Her physical play, trash talk confidence, and motor have made her the heart of Chicago’s gritty identity. Her elite rebounding isn’t just rookie-level—it’s elite by any standard.
Key moments:
- Outrebounded three entire teams—by herself—in June
- Called out critics postgame and immediately trended on X
- Partnered with Reebok in a viral sneaker campaign
Whether you’re #TeamReese or not, she’s making a massive impact.
Player Comparison Table: Clark vs. Reese (2025 Season Stats)
| Category | Caitlin Clark | Angel Reese |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 21.5 | 15.6 |
| Assists Per Game | 7.2 | 2.3 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 4.8 | 11.8 |
| FG% | 44.3% | 46.1% |
| Double-Doubles | 6 | 17 |
| Fan Votes (All-Star) | 1.3 million | 1.1 million |
Dark Horse Alert: Kamilla Cardoso Emerging in the Second Half
While most of the spotlight is on Clark and Reese, Kamilla Cardoso is quietly turning heads in Chicago.
- PPG: 10.2
- RPG: 9.5
- Blocks: 1.8 per game
- Recent Highlight: 18 points and 14 rebounds vs. the Sparks
If Cardoso keeps trending upward, she could shake up the ROTY conversation—especially if the Sky make the playoffs.
What the Fans Are Saying
The fanbase is fired up, and the takes are spicy.
“Clark is the rookie MVP AND face of the league. Case closed.”
“Reese is doing it on both ends. Respect her name!”
“Cardoso is the most underrated rookie out there. Don’t sleep.”
On TikTok, the #WNBARookie hashtag has over 95 million views—proof this class has captivated casual and diehard fans alike.
TV Ratings: Rookies Driving a Viewership Revolution
Let’s talk numbers:
- Indiana Fever games with Caitlin Clark have the highest regular-season ratings in WNBA history
- Sky vs. Fever matchups are averaging 1.8M viewers
- Rookies have more national TV appearances than most veterans
It’s not an exaggeration: the 2025 WNBA season belongs to the rookies.
Endorsement Explosion: Rookie Class Cashing In
These rookies aren’t just hooping—they’re building empires.
Top Rookie Endorsements in 2025:
- Caitlin Clark – Nike, Gatorade, State Farm
- Angel Reese – Reebok, Amazon, Beats by Dre
- Kamilla Cardoso – Under Armour, Target (rumored)
Brands are lining up, and the exposure is helping all players in the league.
Who Will Win Rookie of the Year 2025?
It’s a tight race, but here’s how it looks right now:
- If you’re going by scoring and playmaking: Clark holds the edge.
- If you value hustle and dominance inside: Reese leads the way.
- If defense becomes the deciding factor: Cardoso could be the surprise pick.
It might come down to team success and fan momentum in the final stretch.
Final Thoughts: A Rookie Race for the Ages
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race isn’t just about one trophy—it’s a showcase of the future of women’s basketball. Whether it’s Clark draining logo threes, Reese flexing after a putback, or Cardoso locking down the paint, this class is special.
No matter who takes home the hardware, the league wins. The fans win. And the future of the WNBA? It’s never looked brighter.
Let’s Hear from You!
🏀 Who’s your pick for Rookie of the Year?
💬 Drop your vote in the comments.
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FAQs
1. Who is leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year race in 2025?
Currently, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are the top contenders based on stats and fan support.
2. How are rookies impacting WNBA viewership?
Rookie-driven games are seeing record ratings and increased primetime slots.
3. Has a rookie ever led the league in rebounding?
Angel Reese is on pace to become the first rookie in years to lead the league in rebounds.
4. Could a rookie win MVP and ROTY in the same season?
Unlikely, but Clark is generating MVP-level numbers—so it’s not impossible.
5. What team has the best rookie duo in 2025?
Chicago Sky, with Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, is the top rookie-powered squad right now.
