The 2024 WNBA season has been one to remember thus far. And through the opening third of the season, a number of award races are still wide open.
Alyssa Thomas, A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier all appear legitimate MVP candidates, while Wilson and Seattle’s Ezi Magbegor can lay claim to the title of league’s best defensive player. Cheryl Reeve (Lynx) and Noelle Quinn (Storm) have their teams exceeding preseason expectations, and a strong second half could see either tactician earn Coach of the Year honors.
For many, however, it’s the race for Rookie of the Year that conjures up wonderment. There are a handful of standout rookies in this year’s draft, many of whom have turned their potential into tangible production in their first dozen or so games.
That group is led by Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Sky forward Angel Reese. Both have had moments of brilliance in their maiden years; Clark has recorded six games of 15 points, five rebounds and five assists, trailing only former Fever star Tamika Catchings (eight) and Candace Parker (seven) for most 15/5/5 games as a rookie, while Reese has dropped seven straight double-doubles, a WNBA record for rookies.
With Sparks forward (and fellow rookie) Cameron Brink sidelined for the remainder of the year with a torn ACL,…
