The 2024 WNBA Rookie Rankings season is in full swing, and the rookie class is already making waves. Cameron Brink’s stellar defense was instrumental in the Los Angeles Sparks’ narrow 70-68 victory over the Washington Mystics on Tuesday, securing her the top spot in this week’s Rookie Rankings.
Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever guard, had a memorable debut last week and is gradually finding her footing. Another standout rookie is Angel Reese, who has become a key rebounder for the Chicago Sky. The Sky are eagerly awaiting the debut of Kamilla Cardoso, who is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury but is expected to return in June.
WNBA Rookie Rankings who deserves more attention is Aaliyah Edwards of the Washington Mystics. Edwards recently made her first career start and nearly achieved her first double-double.
Here is an in-depth look at the top five WNBA rookies this week:
1. Cameron Brink (LAS • F • #22)
Stats: 6.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 3.7 BPG
Brink’s impactful debut has propelled her to the top of the rookie rankings. In Tuesday’s victory, her defensive prowess was on full display as she blocked a crucial shot from Mystics center Shakira Austin in the final moments. The 2024 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year is already proving her defensive mettle in the WNBA, contributing eight rebounds, three assists, three steals, and four blocks.
In her previous game against the Las Vegas Aces, Brink recorded eight defensive rebounds, five blocks, and a steal, earning high praise from two-time MVP A’ja Wilson, who lauded her potential and fit with the Sparks.
2. Caitlin Clark (IND • G • #22)
Stats: 17.0 PPG, 5.5 APG, 4.0 RPG
Clark has brought much-needed offensive firepower to the Indiana Fever, averaging 17 points over her first four games. Leading the team with 5.5 assists per game, she is still working on building chemistry with her teammates and reducing turnovers. Despite averaging a league-high 6.5 turnovers per game, Clark is handling significant responsibilities and showing glimpses of her collegiate dominance.
3. Angel Reese (CHI • F • #5)
Stats: 11.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.0 SPG
Reese’s transition to the WNBA has been marked by strong performances, averaging 11.5 points and 8.5 rebounds in her first two games. Although she needs to improve her shooting percentage (34.8%) and avoid foul trouble, Reese’s toughness and eagerness to learn are making a positive impact in Chicago.
4. Aaliyah Edwards (WAS • F • #24)
Stats: 7.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.5 BPG
Edwards capitalized on her first WNBA start against the Seattle Storm, nearly securing a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds. She continued to impress off the bench in the subsequent game against the Sparks, scoring 10 points on efficient shooting and contributing defensively with three steals and two blocks.
5. Rickea Jackson (LAS • F • #2)
Stats: 9.7 PPG, 42.9% 3PT, 2.3 RPG
While Brink has garnered much attention, Jackson has also shown promise for the Sparks. After a less efficient debut, she improved significantly against the Aces, scoring 13 points on 5-for-6 shooting. Jackson’s performance earned her substantial playing time against the Mystics, highlighting her potential as a key contributor.
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