WNBA Rookies to Keep an Eye on: Welcome Back to the W

On July 20th, WNBA All-Stars clashed with the 2024 USA Women’s Basketball Team and successfully defeated them 117-109. Two Rookies and first-time All-Stars, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, were joined by ten other women to take on WNBA veterans, such as Diana Taurasi, Sabrina Ionescu, and A’ja Wilson. Several rookies showed up and showed out throughout the first half of the 2024-2025 WNBA season, attracting viewers from around the world. Following the 2024 Paris Olympics break, the WNBA has resumed play, with the first return game being held on August 15th. As the 2024 WNBA season continues, a question that now remains is whether the rookies can maintain their dominance and continue to raise the bar in the league. Before we address this question, let’s examine closely which rookies you should be keeping your eyes on.

NO. 1: CAITLIN CLARK

Ever since she joined the WNBA, Caitlin Clark has been exceeding expectations and silencing critics left and right. Dubbed “The Sniper,” she has been breaking records in the professional league just as she did during her college career. Clark etched her name in history once again by setting the single-game assist record with 19 assists against the Dallas Wings. Additionally, she reached the milestone of becoming the quickest player to achieve 400 points and 200 assists. In a match against the number-one ranked New York Liberty in July, Clark secured the first-ever triple-double by a rookie in the WNBA. Making a comeback with the Indiana Fever against the #4 Seattle Storm, Clark surpassed the rookie assist record and later established a new franchise record with 77 successful three-pointers. Despite her brief time in the WNBA, Clark is not performing like a rookie. Instead, she is competing at a level that rivals some of the most acclaimed women’s basketball players of all time. Without a doubt, Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever stands in a league of her own!

NO. 2: ANGEL REESE

Angel Reese has proved to be an important member of the Chicago Sky. Reese headed into the 2024 Olympic break after the WNBA All-Star game with the highest offensive and defensive rebounds amongst rookie players. She and Caitlin Clark were the only rookies voted to the WNBA All-Star Team in the same season. Known as the “Chi Barbie,” Reese has been garnering attention before and after the Olympic break. Fans were thrilled to learn that she would be playing in the 3x3 Unrivaled Basketball League in 2025. One of Reese’s most notable attributes is her rebounding. She is leading the WNBA in rebounds and is close to surpassing the double-double rookie record set by Tina Charles in 2010. Angel Reese is a top player in the league who has established herself as a crucial asset to the Chicago Sky. Her contributions showcase her talent and set the stage for her continued impact in the league.

NO. 3: RICKEA JACKSON

Rickea Jackson was selected fourth overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Since then, she has captured the attention of fans worldwide. Jackson has not missed a single game so far this season, allowing her to showcase her exceptional versatility on the court. Recently, she has been getting more recognition for her aggressive style of play. Jackson’s field goal percentage ranks among the top of her class. A standout game for her was on July 13th when she scored 23 points and made seven rebounds to help secure a victory for the Los Angeles Sparks against the Dallas Wings. Following a game with the Las Vegas Aces on August 18th, Sparks head coach Curt Miller commended Jackson for her dedication and performance. Miller has consistently reiterated that Jackson is one of the best rookies in the 2024 WNBA Draft Class. Throughout the season, Jackson’s work ethic and drive to elevate her skills have been evident, solidifying her reputation as a player with immense potential for growth.

NO. 4: KAMILLA CARDOSO

Number five is not alone when it comes to making waves on the Chicago Sky. Kamilla Cardoso, former South Carolina Gamecock, was popular before the 2024 WNBA Draft and continues to be a favorite among fans. Coach Teresa Weatherspoon saw potential in Cardoso due to her impressive size and skill set. Cardoso utilizes her height and strength in the paint extremely well. Although she missed games earlier in the season due to a shoulder injury, Cardoso has been a key player for the Chicago Sky. Currently ranking second in rookie rebounds with 163 and scoring 182 points, Cardoso shows promise for a successful career. Her performance in each game gives hope to the Chicago Sky supporters and showcases her potential. As Cardoso progresses in the WNBA, her influence on the court will only grow larger. The future is optimistic for the South Carolina alumni!

NO. 5: AALIYAH EDWARDS

The University of Connecticut has a history of producing some of the greatest names in women’s basketball history, including 20-year veteran Diana Taurasi. This year, recent UConn graduate Aaliyah Edwards has entered the spotlight. She was selected by the Washington Mystics, catching the eye of General Manager Mike Thibault. Apart from excelling in the United States, Edwards represented Canada in the 2024 Paris Olympics. During this WNBA season, Edwards has impressed time and time again with her performances for the Mystics. She currently ranks second among rookies with a total field goal percentage of 48.2%, only trailing behind four players with percentages of 50%. While competing with talented athletes in the WNBA is commendable, standing out from the pack is another thing. It appears that we can expect to hear a lot more about Aaliyah Edwards in the near future!

NO. 6: JULIE VANLOO

There is more than one star on the Washington Mystics! Julie Vanloo previously played for the Turkish Super League and the Belgian national team. Competing in the WNBA has been a lifelong dream for her, and she has truly seized the opportunity. Even though she is the oldest rookie, she has found herself in a good position in the rankings. Originally scouted internationally for her talent, Vanloo has only evolved since joining the WNBA. Playing in every game for the Washington Mystics this season, she has consistently performed well against all other teams. Vanloo excels in assists, leading her teammates with an average of 5 per game. She has easily adapted to playing professionally in the United States. Making a splash at the 2024 Paris Olympics when Belgium faced Team USA, Vanloo showcased her remarkable shooting skills. While Belgium may have fallen short, Vanloo left a lasting impression. While joining the WNBA was a goal for Vanloo, she can now proudly add becoming a new fan favorite. Followers of women’s basketball should definitely keep an eye on Washington’s other rising star!

NO. 7: CAMERON BRINK

Cameron Brink, a 6’4 Forward from Stanford University, was chosen to join the Los Angeles Sparks in April. Earlier in the 2024-2025 WNBA season, Brink demonstrated her prowess as a top defensive player in the league, a prime reason why she was selected as the second overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Although she has suffered an injury, Brink is still ranked third overall in WNBA blocks, a skill that has previously saved the Sparks in key moments. These achievements come with no surprise, given that Brink was honored with a Defensive Player of the Year award during her college years and holds the record for the most blocks in Stanford University’s history. Observing Brink evolve into a more confident shooter while maintaining her defensive dominance has been truly remarkable. The anticipation for Brink’s return from injury is palpable, and it is evident that her game will reach new levels thanks to her unwavering commitment to recovery. If she plans to surpass her current status in the WNBA, Brink will remain a formidable presence to be reckoned with.

NO. 8: LEONIE FIEBICH

Six months ago, German basketball player Leonie Fiebich signed a rookie contract with the New York Liberty. With previous experience playing for the Los Angeles Sparks and the German national team, Fiebich continues to better her game at every turn. Known for her strong leadership and ability to make crucial decisions, Fiebich’s versatility on the court has gained recognition from her teammates and coaches. Ranking sixth for rebounds, fifth for assists, and fourth for steals among rookies, Fiebich has made a significant impact. The New York Liberty have their minds set on taking home the 2024-2025 WNBA Championship, and having already advanced into the playoffs with Fiebich onboard; it will be even more difficult to take them down. As she navigates transitioning onto a new team, Fiebich’s passion for the game has shone through, setting a strong foundation for a promising career heading forward. It will not be long until Leonie Fiebich becomes a name you hear on the regular and potentially a WNBA Champion!

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Kate Martin

A rookie Guard from the University of Iowa who joined another Hawkeye alumni on the Las Vegas Aces.

In her 25 games with the team, Kate Martin has scored 79 points, grabbed 47 rebounds, made 26 assists, and blocked seven shots. She has a flawless free throw record, making all 6 of her attempts. Despite not receiving as many minutes on the court as some of her fellow rookies, Martin is utilizing the opportunity to learn from top players in the league, and her improved performances reflect it.

Jacy Sheldon

A rookie Guard hailing from Ohio State University and a member of the Dallas Wings. Jacy Sheldon was the 5th overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft and has proven herself invaluable in both offensive and defensive aspects. Throughout the season, Sheldon has accumulated an impressive total of 148 points, 54 rebounds, 53 assists, 13 steals, and nine blocks. Talk about making an impact! 

Sevgi Uzun

A rookie Guard from Turkey signed with the Dallas Wings. Sevgi Uzun has previously played in the Turkish League and for the Turkish national team. Uzun has showcased her skills on the court with 91 assists, 27 steals, and 137 points. Moreover, she has an impressive 84% free throw percentage, having missed only three attempts during the 2024 season. Uzun has quickly adapted to her environment in the WNBA, and favorable opportunities lie ahead for her.

CONCLUSION

As the second half of the 2024-2025 WNBA season begins, rookies are returning after already making significant contributions to their respective teams. These rookies, some straight from collegiate competition and others from across the world, have seamlessly integrated into the professional level, defying expectations in every way imaginable. This season’s rookies have been nothing short of electrifying across the world of basketball, captivating audiences and leaving their mark on the league early on. Thriving in the WNBA’s landscape is not easy, but the 2024 rookies have taken the league by storm, cementing their status as the new generation of athletes who will shape the future of women’s professional basketball for years to come.