The Indiana Fever will visit the Chicago Sky on Sunday in another interesting clash between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, both of whom are still developing and improving in their first seasons in the WNBA. Before the game was over, Clark and Reese had made history with their efforts.
According to StatMamba, Caitlin Clark is the only rookie since 2009 to have a double-double with points and rebounds, as well as a double-double with assists. It demonstrates Clark’s significant contributions to the Fever. Angel Reese now has eight consecutive double-doubles, the fourth-longest streak in WNBA history, according to StatMamba. While Reese still needs to improve several aspects of her game, she has shown a lot of promise, particularly in terms of rebounding.
This is a crucial matchup for both the Fever and the Sky. The Fever have one of the last playoff slots with a 7-10 overall record, good for seventh in the league, while the Sky are 5-9 overall and half a game behind the Fever and the Atlanta Dream for the final two playoff spots. It would be huge for the Sky to win, given that they are 0-2 versus the Fever this season.
Given where the Fever and Sky were last season, it would be a significant accomplishment for both clubs to make the playoffs with Clark and Reese contributing. Neither team is projected to be a true contender to advance deep into the playoffs and challenge for the championship, but a postseason appearance would provide crucial experience for both.
How are Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese doing in their rookie seasons?
Clark is averaging 16.2 points per game this season, with 5.4 rebounds and 6.2 assists, which is not terrible for a rookie, but she would like to improve her efficiency, as she is shooting 39.6% from the field and 33.8% from three, according to Basketball Reference. Clark will also want to cut back on turnovers as her career advances.
Reese averages 12.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, according to Basketball Reference. The rebounding numbers are amazing, and they are consistent with what was expected of her based on her college experience. Similar to Clark, Reese wants to increase her efficiency, as she is shooting 38.6% from the field this season.
It would be fascinating to see if both players can develop over the season, given they have essentially been playing nonstop since the beginning of the 2023-2024 college basketball season. With the Olympic break looming, the games following it could be crucial for both Clark and Reese.
