Shaquille O’Neal Reveals His Pick For WNBA Rookie Of The Year And Says Clark just doesn’t…

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has announced his choice for the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year. Despite recognizing the outstanding season of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, O’Neal is backing Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese for the award.

Speaking live on ESPN with basketball analyst Matt Barrie, the NBA Hall of Famer praised Reese highly, dismissing any suggestions of bias due to their shared LSU alumni status. “I’m not saying this because she went to LSU, but I think she’s definitely leading in the Rookie of the Year race,” O’Neal stated.

When Barrie asked about Clark, O’Neal acknowledged her significant impact on women’s basketball, calling her the “female Steph Curry.” However, he reiterated his support for Reese, saying, “Caitlin Clark is a fabulous player. Angel Reese is a fabulous player, but I’m going to give it to Angel Reese right now.”

Reese is currently averaging 13.5 points and 12.0 rebounds per game for the Sky, while Clark has 16.8 points and 7.8 assists per game for Indiana. Both rookies have set impressive WNBA records this season. O’Neal favors Reese despite Chicago’s 10-14 standing in the Eastern Conference, just below Indiana’s 11-14.

Reese recently made WNBA history with 15 consecutive double-doubles, a streak that ended on July 13 against the New York Liberty when she scored eight points and grabbed 16 rebounds. Clark, on the other hand, became the first-ever rookie to achieve a triple-double on July 6 against the Liberty, with 19 points, 13 assists, and 12 rebounds in an 83-78 win.

O’Neal has maintained a close relationship with Reese, frequently commenting on her progress throughout the season. Both rookies will share the court on July 20 at the WNBA All-Star game, marking their first time playing together on the same team.