Caitlin Clark was named Rookie of the Year in the WNBA but did not receive a unanimous vote, with one person opting instead for Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese.
Caitlin Clark Receives WNBA Rookie of the Year Award Amid Voting Controversy
Basketball legend Sheryl Swoopes has recently addressed the controversy surrounding Caitlin Clark’s Rookie of the Year honors in the WNBA. Despite an incredible season filled with outstanding performances, Clark did not receive a unanimous vote for the award, which has sparked considerable discussion.
Clark, who was the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft after her stellar college career at Iowa, initially struggled at the start of her professional journey but quickly turned things around. She finished her debut season with impressive averages of 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds, while also breaking 11 league records.
However, her Rookie of the Year accolade was not without contention, as one voter chose Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese instead of Clark, leading to some disappointment among fans. Swoopes, a four-time WNBA champion, clarified that she was not involved in the voting process, despite previously voicing concerns over Clark’s qualifications, which were later alleviated after the Olympic break.
During her appearance on the *Levels To This* podcast, Swoopes praised Clark’s achievements, stating, “First of all, congratulations to Caitlin; very well deserved. She had a hell of a rookie year doing things that just haven’t been done by a rookie before.” She emphasized, “But I hate to disappoint the people… You all cannot blame this one on me. I don’t get a vote. I’ve never had a vote in any of the awards.”
Swoopes also mentioned that had Rickea Jackson received more playing time early in the season, she could have been a contender for the award. She expressed admiration for Angel Reese’s double-double record but ultimately acknowledged Clark’s exceptional performance after the Olympic break: “After the Olympic break, Caitlin Clark got some rest. She came back and completely separated herself from all other rookies in the league.”
In response to the controversy, several individuals publicly stated their support for Clark. CBS journalist Terrika Foster-Brasby asserted on social media, “I voted for CC. So don’t blow me up or call me a hater cause IT WASN’T TERRIKA.” Similarly, journalist Khristina Williams and SiriusXM’s Nick Hamilton confirmed their votes for Clark, adding to the chorus of support for the talented guard.
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