That’s the verdict of South Carolina’s March Madness-winning coach Dawn Staley, who has no doubts that the Chicago Sky forward would receive the award if it was decided now.

Reese and Clark are both enjoying sensational rookie seasons in Chicago and Indiana respectively, with the former’s average of 11.8 rebounds per game the highest in the league.

Her arch-rival over at the Fever, meanwhile, leads the rookies when it comes to points per game (16.8) and has set numerous records already; such as becoming the first rookie ever to record 400 points, 150 assists and 100 rebounds.

However, when quizzed on who she would name Rookie of the Year right now, Staley named Reese as a clear winner.

Angel Reese (right) should be named Rookie of the Year ahead of Caitlin Clark (left), says South Carolina coach Dawn Staley

 

Staley says there is ‘not a doubt’ that Reese has been the best rookie in the WNBA this season

‘They both are having great years, don’t get me wrong,’ the 54-year-old told TMZ Sports.

‘If I had to pick a Rookie of the Year at this time, today… it’s Angel. Not a doubt. [Because of] what she’s been able to do with the double-doubles.’

Opinion is divided on who is leading the Rookie of the Year race two months into the regular season, with others adamant that Clark’s strong form with the Fever makes her the favorite.

Conservative sports commentator Jason Whitlock feels the former Iowa college star is most likely to come out on top, saying about her high number of turnovers on X: ‘[Michael] Jordan wasn’t defended the way Clark has been. Plus, she’s a risk-taker/gambler because she’s so much more skilled than 97% of the players.’