Who will win WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025? We break down the top contenders, key stats, and what fans are saying this season.
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race is heating up, and it’s already shaping into one of the most competitive in recent memory. With a star-studded draft class and multiple rookies making immediate impact, fans are locked in. From buzzer-beaters to double-doubles, these first-year players aren’t just adjusting—they’re taking over.
Let’s break down the top candidates, highlight their standout performances, and look at what’s driving this electric rookie class to dominate headlines, boost WNBA viewership, and spark social media debates coast to coast.
Why the 2025 Rookie Class Is Special
2025’s class might go down as a generational group. Here’s why:
- Multiple players are already starters.
- Several rookies are leading their teams in major stat categories.
- Rookie matchups are setting TV ratings records.
- Endorsement deals are piling up fast.
It’s not just about potential anymore—these players are producing now.
Top WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 Candidates
Let’s look at the top rookies dominating early in the season.
Caitlin Clark – Indiana Fever
- PPG: 23.7
- APG: 6.9
- 3PT%: 38.5%
Clark came into the league with sky-high expectations, and somehow, she’s exceeded them. She’s been the focal point of Indiana’s offense and a key reason for their surge in WNBA news and ratings.
“Every time Caitlin steps on the floor, it feels like an event.” – ESPN’s Andraya Carter
Notable Game:
vs. Las Vegas Aces, June 14 – 34 points, 9 assists, 6 threes
Angel Reese – Chicago Sky
- PPG: 16.2
- RPG: 11.4
- Double-Doubles: 11 (most among all rookies)
Reese is a rebounding machine. She’s already made WNBA history with consecutive double-doubles, drawing comparisons to Sylvia Fowles and Tina Charles in their prime.
Notable Game:
vs. Phoenix Mercury, June 25 – 22 points, 15 rebounds
Cameron Brink – Los Angeles Sparks
- BPG: 2.8 (Top 3 in WNBA)
- FG%: 50%
- PPG: 10.1
Before a knee injury sidelined her in early July, Brink was dominating the paint. If she returns in time and keeps up the pace, she could still make a strong push.
Player Comparison Table: 2025 Rookie Standouts (as of July 8)
| Player | Team | PPG | RPG | APG | BPG | FG% | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | Indiana Fever | 23.7 | 4.3 | 6.9 | 0.3 | 44% | 38.5% from 3-point range |
| Angel Reese | Chicago Sky | 16.2 | 11.4 | 2.1 | 0.5 | 48% | 11 Double-Doubles |
| Cameron Brink | L.A. Sparks | 10.1 | 6.8 | 1.5 | 2.8 | 50% | 2.8 Blocks per Game |
Fan Reactions: Twitter & TikTok Buzz
🔥 “Angel Reese is dominating the paint like a vet!”
🏀 “Caitlin Clark MVP already?!”
💬 “Brink was slept on. She’s a defensive wall.”
The 2025 WNBA rookie class isn’t just trending—they’re taking over fan discourse.
TV Ratings Are Soaring Thanks to the Rookies
Games featuring rookie stars are pulling in some of the highest TV numbers in WNBA history.
📺 Top-Rated Rookie Game So Far:
Indiana Fever vs. Chicago Sky – June 21
- Viewers: 3.6 million
- Networks: ABC, ESPN, WNBA League Pass
- Streaming spike: +212% compared to the same date last year
Source: Sports Media Watch
Endorsement Deals on the Rise
Rookies aren’t just making moves on the court. They’re securing major deals off it.
Caitlin Clark
- Nike
- Gatorade
- State Farm
Angel Reese
- Reebok
- Amazon Fashion
- Beats by Dre
According to Boardroom, Clark and Reese have two of the top five NIL-to-pro transition deals in women’s basketball history.
Trending Controversies and Drama
Of course, with popularity comes drama.
- Clark vs. Reese moments are magnified—every foul, stare-down, or social post creates debate.
- Brink’s injury sparked heated talk about WNBA scheduling and player safety.
- Some fans argue the league favors Clark’s media exposure over other rookies.
But all of this? It’s good for the game. Controversy = conversation = growth.
Dark Horse Candidates to Watch
Don’t sleep on these names:
- Rickea Jackson (Sparks): Instant energy off the bench
- Kamilla Cardoso (Sky): Starting to find her rhythm in the post
- Jacy Sheldon (Wings): Strong perimeter defense and hustle plays
They may not lead now, but there’s plenty of season left.
What the Numbers Say About the Race
Here’s what voters consider for Rookie of the Year:
- Consistency (Clark & Reese are weekly standouts)
- Team impact (Clark’s team has improved dramatically)
- Storyline & hype (Media matters, like it or not)
- Stats (points, rebounds, assists, efficiency)
Right now, it’s a Clark vs. Reese battle, but don’t rule out a late-season twist.
Final Prediction (As of July 2025)
🏆 Caitlin Clark is the current frontrunner due to her offensive output and impact on WNBA viewership and team performance.
But if Angel Reese keeps posting double-doubles and pushes Chicago into playoff contention? The race gets very real.
Conclusion: This Race Isn’t Over Yet
The WNBA Rookie of the Year 2025 race is a rare mix of talent, timing, and hype. With so many young stars showing out, fans are in for a wild ride. Whether you’re all-in on Caitlin Clark, riding for Angel Reese, or waiting for a surprise surge, one thing’s clear: the future of women’s basketball is already here.
So—who’s your pick for ROY?
👀 Drop your vote in the comments, share this article with your hoops crew, and subscribe for weekly WNBA deep dives and updates!
FAQs
1. Who is leading the WNBA Rookie of the Year race in 2025?
Caitlin Clark is currently the frontrunner based on scoring and impact.
2. Can Angel Reese still win ROY?
Absolutely. Her rebounding and double-doubles keep her in serious contention.
3. Why is the 2025 rookie class getting so much attention?
They’re producing at high levels and driving record-breaking WNBA viewership.
4. Where can I watch rookie-led WNBA games?
Catch them on ABC, ESPN, or via WNBA League Pass.
5. Will Cameron Brink return from injury this season?
It’s unclear, but fans are hopeful for a late-season comeback.
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