WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race heats up! Clark, Reese, and Bueckers battle for the crown. Here’s who’s ahead and why fans are buzzing.
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 conversation has taken over headlines — and it’s not just because of the talent. It’s about impact, fan loyalty, social media hype, and yes, a little drama too. With Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers all making waves in their first season, the award race is as competitive as the playoff standings.
This isn’t just another trophy — it’s a battle that symbolizes the league’s shifting culture and the rising wave of women’s basketball 2025. So who’s really leading the race? Let’s break it down.
Caitlin Clark’s Electric Start
Few rookies have entered the WNBA with more hype than Caitlin Clark. And somehow, she’s living up to it — and then some.
Clark’s current stats (as of July 29, 2025):
- PPG: 21.3
- APG: 8.5
- 3P%: 39.8%
- Fan votes for All-Star: #1 overall
Clark’s ability to stretch the floor with deep threes and her elite passing vision have transformed the Las Vegas Aces, already a strong team, into an unstoppable force. She’s also leading the league in social media engagement, drawing in new fans every week.
“Clark’s floor spacing is what makes the Aces almost unguardable now,” said ESPN’s LaChina Robinson.
Angel Reese: Hustle, Heart, and Headlines
If Clark brings the flash, Angel Reese brings the fire. The Chicago Sky forward has taken the league by storm with relentless rebounding, gritty defense, and unmatched energy.
Reese’s current stats:
- PPG: 14.8
- RPG: 12.1 (2nd in the WNBA)
- Double-doubles: 16 (leads all rookies)
- Endorsements: Reebok, McDonald’s, Amazon
Reese’s viral moments — like out-rebounding veterans twice her size or trash-talking with a smile — have made her a fan favorite, especially among younger viewers and social-first fans.
“I play with passion. That’s not going to change,” Reese said in a recent interview.
Paige Bueckers Joins the Party
Don’t count out Paige Bueckers, the latest rookie to heat up the race. After a slower start due to early-season minutes management, she’s now lighting it up for the Minnesota Lynx.
Key stats:
- PPG: 16.7
- FG%: 46.5%
- SPG: 2.1
- Clutch points in 4th quarter: Top 5 in league
Bueckers plays with a smooth, composed style that balances flair and fundamentals. As the Lynx push for a playoff spot, her contributions are becoming harder to ignore.
Comparing the Top 3: Rookie Stat Table
| Player | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | Team Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | 21.3 | 4.0 | 8.5 | 45.2% | Aces: 1st in West |
| Angel Reese | 14.8 | 12.1 | 1.6 | 48.9% | Sky: Wildcard Contender |
| Paige Bueckers | 16.7 | 3.7 | 4.1 | 46.5% | Lynx: Playoff bubble |
TV Ratings Surge When These Rookies Play
One of the clearest signs of impact? Viewership.
- Games featuring Clark or Reese are averaging 1.7 million+ viewers.
- The July 10 matchup between the Aces and Sky drew 2.3 million — highest-rated game of the season.
- TikTok content tagged #WNBARookies has over 60 million views in 2025 alone.
Their performances aren’t just filling stat sheets — they’re filling screens.
Fan Reactions Are Loud — And Divided
Let’s be honest: WNBA Twitter has turned the ROY debate into its own season.
Clark fans say:
- “She’s the best rookie AND the best passer in the league.”
- “Changed the game the second she stepped on the court.”
Reese supporters argue:
- “Double-doubles don’t lie. She’s pure hustle.”
- “She’s more than stats — she’s building culture.”
And Bueckers stans?
- “Most complete player. It’s not hype, it’s skill.”
- “Wait until playoffs. She’s clutch when it counts.”
The debate is intense — but great for the league.
Endorsements Fueling the ROY Buzz
Brands are cashing in on the hype — and further pushing the profiles of these rookies.
- Clark: Nike, Gatorade, State Farm
- Reese: Reebok (with her own sneaker!), Amazon, Savage X Fenty
- Bueckers: Under Armour, Red Bull, Beats by Dre
More visibility = more fan votes and momentum heading into award season.
Past Winners vs 2025 Candidates
| Year | Player | Team | ROY Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Aliyah Boston | Indiana Fever | 14.5 PPG, 8.4 RPG |
| 2024 | Diamond Miller | Minnesota Lynx | 15.2 PPG, 3.2 APG |
| 2025 | TBD | ??? | ??? |
This year’s rookie class could go down as one of the most impactful in WNBA history.
Who Has the Edge Right Now?
As of late July 2025, Caitlin Clark holds a narrow statistical lead — especially with her offensive production and team success. But Angel Reese is closing fast, and if she keeps racking up double-doubles and leading the Sky into the postseason, she could pull ahead.
Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers is the wildcard. If the Lynx secure a playoff berth and she shines late in the season, voters may look her way.
Call to Action
Who’s your WNBA Rookie of the Year pick for 2025 — Clark, Reese, or Bueckers? Let’s hear it! Drop your opinion in the comments, share the post with a fellow fan, and subscribe for more WNBA news, rankings, and deep dives all season long.
Also Read: Latest Trending News
External Source: WNBA Official Site
FAQs
1. Who is currently leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year race in 2025?
Caitlin Clark is leading based on scoring and team performance, but Angel Reese is close behind with her rebounding dominance.
2. Has a rookie ever led the league in assists before?
Caitlin Clark is on pace to do just that — a rare feat for any player, let alone a rookie.
3. Can Angel Reese win despite lower scoring numbers?
Yes, her rebounding, hustle, and emotional impact on the Sky are major factors voters consider.
4. Is Paige Bueckers still in the running?
Absolutely. Her clutch play and rising stats could sway voters if the Lynx make a playoff run.
5. When will the Rookie of the Year winner be announced?
Typically after the regular season ends in September, ahead of the WNBA Playoffs.
