Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese is currently battling for the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year award, most notably against Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.

Stephen A. Smith Makes His Feelings About Angel Reese Crystal Clear | National Sports | starlocalmedia.com

On the latest episode of First Take, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith chimed in on the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year debate and shared his thoughts on Angel Reese’s impact on the league.

Smith has expressed the opinion that Reese has the potential to be the Rookie of the Year. While not providing a definitive answer at this time, he definitely hinted that Reese is his pick over Clark.

“She may be Rookie of the Year,” Smith said. “She’s special… I don’t care what anybody says, cause she can play, she’s no scrub, she’s a walking double-double.”

Reese has averaged 13.5 points and 11.9 rebounds per game and is currently ranked as the No. 2 player in the WNBA in terms of average rebounds. She also holds the WNBA record for the most consecutive double-doubles with 15, surpassing league legend Candace Parker, who had 12 straight between the 2009 and 2010 WNBA seasons.

Meanwhile, in Indiana, Clark has had a historic rookie season well, breaking all sorts of records while averaging 17.1 points, 8.2 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Jul 20, 2024; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Team WNBA forward Angel Reese (5) looks on during the first half against the USA Women's National Team at Footprint Center.

Jul 20, 2024; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Team WNBA forward Angel Reese (5) looks on during the first half against the USA Women’s National Team at Footprint Center.

© Mark J. Rebilas–USA TODAY Sports

Smith added that he believes Reese’s marketability will have a positive impact on women’s basketball.

“Stop apologizing!” Smith continued. “Marketability matters, and if you could have that girl on the team, make sure you do it. That’s going to elevate the popularity of the sport in a rising time, and a rising tide lifts all boats.”

Aside from her play on the court, Reese has been able to attract millions of new viewers to the WNBA. She’s a star on and off the hardwood, having over eight million combined followers on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

Reese and the Sky were a part of the most viewed game in the WNBA this season, luring in over 2.3 viewers in Chicago’s 88-87 victory over Clark and the Fever on June 23.

Reese will return to the court on Aug. 15, set to host the Phoenix Mercury at 8 p.m. ET.