Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Caitlin Clark Named to All-WNBA First Team, Making History as a Rookie

 

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark has made headlines by being named to the All-WNBA first team, becoming the first rookie in 16 years to earn this distinction. The announcement on Wednesday highlighted Clark’s remarkable debut season, as she joins elite company in the 2024 WNBA selections.

Clark was selected alongside Napheesa Collier, league MVP A’ja Wilson from the Las Vegas Aces, Breanna Stewart, and Alyssa Thomas. Both Wilson, who also secured Defensive Player of the Year, and Collier were unanimously voted onto the first team. This marks Wilson's third MVP title and the sixth time Stewart has made the first team.

Additionally, Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty), Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury), Nneka Ogwumike (Seattle Storm), Arike Ogunbowale (Dallas Wings), and Jonquel Jones (Liberty) were named to the All-WNBA second team.

Clark’s impressive rookie performance earned her 52 first-team votes, placing her fourth overall in the voting. She also finished fourth in MVP consideration. The last rookie to receive first-team honors was Candace Parker in 2008. Other notable players who achieved this early in their careers include Sue Bird, Tamika Catchings, and Diana Taurasi.

As the WNBA Rookie of the Year, Clark posted outstanding averages of 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a league-best 8.4 assists per game during her debut season.

With the New York Liberty currently battling the Minnesota Lynx in a tied WNBA Finals series, several first and second team honorees, including Stewart, Ionescu, and Jones, are showcasing their talents on the league's biggest stage. Collier remains the only player from the Lynx to receive All-WNBA recognition this season.

The selections were made by a panel of 67 sportswriters and broadcasters, based on votes cast at the conclusion of the regular season. Players were chosen regardless of position, making Clark’s inclusion all the more significant in her first year in the league.

No comments:

Post a Comment