"My vote would go to Caitlin Clark": Veteran analyst throws support behind Fever rookie as frontrunner for WNBA ROTY due to one reason 

As Caitlin Clark continues to put together an impressive rookie season, the Rookie of the Year debate has become a hot topic in the WNBA. One analyst threw out a very shocking metric as to why the Indiana Fever guard should take home the award.

Following her historic performance against the Dallas Wings, Clark's ROY case was brought up during Thursday's episode of "Get Up" on ESPN. While discussing the topic, veteran analyst Rebecca Lobo stated why she'd vote for the No. 1 pick.

"She has scored or assisted on more points than any other player this season," Lobo said. "Right now, because of what she's doing on the offensive end of the floor, certainly my vote would go to Caitlin Clark."

In her first 26 games, Clark is averaging 17.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists. She is fresh off a playmaking masterclass, setting a new WNBA record with 19 assists against the Wings. Earlier this month, Clark also became the first rookie to notch a triple-double.

It's evident the impact Clark's presence has had on the Fever. With 11 wins this season already, Indiana is only two victories behind their total from 2023. Between her team's success and multiple historic outings, Clark should be seen as a massive frontrunner in the ROY debate.

---

Shaquille O'Neal picks Angel Reese over Caitlin Clark for Rookie of the Year

Rebecca Lobo might feel Caitlin Clark is the favorite for Rookie of the Year, but one NBA legend doesn't see it that way. During a recent appearance on "SportsCenter," Shaquille O'Neal stated who he thinks is the favorite at this point in the season.

The LA Lakers legend is siding with Angel Reese in the ROY race. That said, it's worth mentioning that the two have built a close relationship dating back to her time at LSU.

"She's the type that if you doubt her, she's just gonna step up and play," Shaq said. "I'm not saying this because she went to LSU, but I think she's definitely leading in the Rookie of the Year race."

Similar to Caitlin Clark, Reese was named to the WNBA All-Star team as a rookie. The Chicago Sky forward has also impressed in her first year, averaging 13.5 points and 11.9 rebounds.

Though it recently came to an end, Reese was making history in her own way this season. She went on a streak of double-doubles that ended up stretching 15 games.

As for the standings, Clark's Fever are one spot ahead of Reese and the Sky. Seeing that many people have spoken out for each player, it could end up being an interesting race in the second half of the season.