WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 is heating up. See who’s leading the race, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and more breakout stars.
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting in league history. With household names like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese transitioning from college superstardom to pro-level impact, the award isn’t just about stats — it’s about influence, fan engagement, and next-level performance.
Whether you’re tuning in for the highlights, tracking stats, or following the WNBA news for drama and buzzer-beaters, one thing is clear: this rookie class is redefining women’s basketball 2025.
So who’s truly leading the ROTY race? Let’s break it down.
What Does WNBA Rookie of the Year Consider?
To win WNBA Rookie of the Year, players are judged on:
- Individual stats (PPG, RPG, APG, etc.)
- Team contribution and impact
- Consistency and improvement
- Fan/media visibility and marketability
With rookies making immediate contributions this year, the competition is tight. Voters are watching everything — and so are fans.
Top WNBA Rookie Stats (Mid-Season 2025)
| Player | Team | PPG | RPG | APG | Steals | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | Indiana Fever | 21.1 | 4.7 | 6.5 | 1.3 | 42.2% |
| Angel Reese | Chicago Sky | 15.4 | 11.3 | 2.1 | 1.8 | 45.8% |
| Kamilla Cardoso | Chicago Sky | 10.9 | 8.2 | 1.0 | 0.9 | 49.7% |
| Rickea Jackson | LA Sparks | 13.3 | 5.6 | 1.9 | 1.0 | 44.1% |
All four rookies are making strong cases, but two names are currently neck-and-neck.
Caitlin Clark: The Star Everyone Expected
Let’s be honest — Caitlin Clark came into the league with superstar expectations. And she’s meeting (and maybe exceeding) them.
- Averaging over 21 points per game.
- Leads all rookies in assists and three-pointers.
- Has already posted four 30+ point games.
Her deep shooting and playmaking have made the Indiana Fever must-watch TV. Clark’s debut drew 3.3 million viewers, the most for a WNBA game in over a decade, according to CBS Sports.
And don’t forget her impact off the court — her Nike endorsement, State Farm commercials, and constant viral clips keep her trending on TikTok.
Angel Reese: The Rebounding Machine
While Clark lights up the scoreboard, Angel Reese is dominating the paint. She’s a rebounding beast, leading all WNBA players in offensive rebounds — not just rookies.
Key achievements:
- Broke the rookie record for consecutive double-doubles.
- Helping the Chicago Sky stay playoff-relevant despite roster changes.
- Averaging a double-double — a rare feat for any rookie.
Reese also brings fire to the floor. Her confidence, interviews, and crowd engagement have made her a fan favorite — and a consistent topic on WNBA Twitter/X.
“She’s the emotional leader of this team,” Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon said recently.
The Best of the Rest: Cardoso and Jackson
While Clark and Reese dominate headlines, don’t sleep on:
Kamilla Cardoso (Chicago Sky):
- Quietly anchoring the Sky’s defense.
- Shooting nearly 50% from the field.
- Becoming more aggressive offensively each week.
Rickea Jackson (LA Sparks):
- Versatile scorer and clutch performer.
- Averaging 13+ points off the bench.
- A dark horse ROTY candidate if Sparks push for the playoffs.
Fan Reactions: Who Do They Want?
Social media is divided — and passionate.
- Team Clark fans love her flair, vision, and scoring.
- Team Reese fans value her grit, rebounds, and energy.
- TikTok has over 50 million views under #WNBARookieOfTheYear2025.
- Reddit threads compare daily box scores like it’s a fantasy league.
This isn’t just a vote — it’s a movement.
Recent WNBA Rookie Headlines
Here’s what’s buzzing in women’s basketball 2025:
- Clark’s near triple-double vs. the Liberty last week had the crowd on their feet.
- Reese’s 18-rebound game vs. Las Vegas got love from Shaq and Barkley.
- Cardoso’s breakout game with 19 points and 11 boards showed her upside.
Want more? Catch the full schedule at the WNBA Official Site.
What Could Decide the 2025 ROTY Race?
Things to watch in the second half of the season:
- Team performance: If Indiana makes the playoffs, that helps Clark’s case. Same goes for the Sky and Reese.
- Media coverage: Appearances on ESPN, features in GQ, or trending moments can sway voters.
- Consistency: Late-season fatigue or injuries could shift momentum.
The final stretch will be intense — and fans are here for it.
WNBA Rookie of the Year History: Context Matters
Here’s how recent winners performed:
| Year | Player | PPG | Team Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Aliyah Boston | 14.5 | 9th |
| 2023 | Rhyne Howard | 16.2 | 10th |
| 2022 | Michaela Onyenwere | 8.6 | 11th |
Clark and Reese’s numbers are already stronger — and their teams are actually winning games. That could be the edge.
Final Prediction: Who Wins WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025?
If the season ended today, Caitlin Clark would likely win — based on her scoring, assists, and cultural impact. But Angel Reese is right there, especially if she continues to dominate the glass and lead the Sky to a playoff berth.
This one could go down to the final game.
So, what’s your take? Team Clark or Team Reese? Drop your pick in the comments, share this with your WNBA crew, and let’s settle the debate!
Also Read: Latest Trending News
FAQs
1. Who is leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race?
Currently, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are the top contenders, with Clark slightly ahead in stats.
2. How is the Rookie of the Year decided?
It’s voted on by sportswriters and analysts, based on stats, impact, and overall performance.
3. Can a player win Rookie of the Year if their team doesn’t make the playoffs?
Yes — it’s happened before. But team success can help boost a player’s case.
4. Are there any other rookie standouts in 2025?
Yes! Kamilla Cardoso and Rickea Jackson are both having strong seasons.
5. When will the WNBA Rookie of the Year be announced?
It’s typically announced shortly after the regular season ends in September.
