Angel Reese’s Frustration After Caitlin Clark Holds Top Spot in WNBA Second-Year Player Rankings
Caitlin Clark is the best second-year player in the WNBA if we're talking solely about skill, but injuries have hampered Clark this season. If we're ranking second-year players based on 2025 contributions, has Clark been the best second-year player this year?
–>
Angel Reese’s Frustration After Caitlin Clark Holds Top Spot in WNBA Second-Year Player Rankings
The debate for the best second-year player in the WNBA this season has reached new heights. While Caitlin Clark remains a dominant force in the league, one player, in particular, has expressed her frustration after Clark was ranked at the top of the second-year player rankings. That player is none other than Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, who has been having a standout year but finds herself second in the rankings behind Clark.
Reese, whose contributions to the Sky this season have been undeniable, took to social media to vent her anger and disappointment after Clark retained the top spot despite missing significant time due to injury. This reaction has sparked a wider conversation about the fairness of rankings and the ongoing rivalry between these two rising stars.
The Rankings: A Closer Look
In the 2025 WNBA second-year player rankings, Caitlin Clark was still listed as the number one player, despite missing time with injuries. Clark’s overall impact on the court when healthy is undeniably immense. She leads the league in scoring and assists for second-year players and ranks third in rebounds, a remarkable feat for a guard. Additionally, her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, creating space and opportunities, has made her a force to be reckoned with.
However, Angel Reese has made a case for the top spot herself. Reese has been a dominant presence for the Chicago Sky, particularly in rebounding, where she ranks first among second-year players, averaging 8.7 defensive rebounds per game. Reese is also second in points per game, showing her all-around abilities and growth since last season.
Despite Reese’s exceptional performance, the ranking committee still placed Clark at the top, citing her impressive numbers when available and her overall impact. The rankings, however, have caused a stir, especially considering Reese’s standout season.
Reese’s Reaction: “I Should Be Number One”
Angel Reese, known for her competitive fire and passion on the court, was visibly upset when the rankings were revealed. She expressed her frustration on social media, questioning how she could be overlooked despite her consistency and impact on the floor this season.
“I don’t understand how I can lead in rebounds and be second in points and still be ranked behind someone who hasn’t played as much. It doesn’t make sense,” Reese said in a tweet. “I’m giving it my all every game, and I don’t think I should be ranked second. I should be number one.”
Reese’s post quickly gained traction, sparking a debate among fans, analysts, and players alike. While many supported Reese’s frustration, others pointed to Clark’s superior overall contribution and leadership on the floor when healthy. Caitlin Clark had led the Indiana Fever to significant success, and her playmaking ability was a big reason for her ranking.
Reese, however, made it clear that she wasn’t going to sit back quietly. “I work hard every day. I put in the hours, and I show up for my team. I deserve that top spot,” she continued in another post.
Fans Weigh In: The Rivalry Heats Up
Reese’s outburst didn’t go unnoticed by fans, who immediately began discussing the merits of both players. On social media platforms, the debate about who truly deserves the top ranking raged on.
Some fans pointed to Reese’s consistency, noting that she has been healthy and reliable for the entirety of the season. Others backed Clark, arguing that her game-changing influence and the way she elevates the Fever when on the court warranted her top position.
“This whole ‘missing time’ thing doesn’t change how Clark plays when she’s out there. She warps the floor,” said one fan on Reddit. “Reese has been great, but Clark is on a whole other level when healthy.”
Another fan said, “Angel Reese’s presence on the boards and ability to score inside is incredible. If she’s not number one, then who else is? This ranking is wild.”
It’s clear that the rivalry between these two players, both at the top of their game, has grown fiercer. The tension between them could lead to even greater performances on the court as each player seeks to prove that they deserve the top spot.
A Larger Conversation About Rankings and Respect
While the ranking controversy has sparked debate over the performances of Clark and Reese, it also highlights a deeper issue about the way players are evaluated in the WNBA. Injury setbacks and availability often play a significant role in rankings, but they don’t always reflect a player’s skill or overall contribution.
Caitlin Clark is undeniably a star, but the fact that Reese has been available and performing at a high level this season speaks to her development and importance to her team. The rankings, therefore, bring up the question of whether the WNBA system truly values consistency and production or whether it leans too heavily on injury history and brief appearances.
In Reese’s case, her frustration is valid — as she’s had a fantastic year. But Clark’s ability to dominate the game and make an impact when healthy also cannot be overlooked. The debate between these two players is not just about who’s ranked higher, but about respect for their skill sets, contributions, and abilities.
Moving Forward: The Battle for the Top Spot
With both players highly motivated and determined, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are positioned to continue pushing each other for the top spot in the WNBA’s second-year player rankings. Clark’s return to full health will likely bring new dynamics to this conversation, while Reese’s growing dominance on both ends of the floor has already made her one of the league’s brightest young stars.
This rivalry could be just the beginning of something much bigger, as both players are shaping up to be the future faces of the WNBA. The ranking battle will only serve as motivation for them to elevate their games further — and, ultimately, the fans will be the real winners, watching these two exceptional athletes rise to new heights.
For now, Angel Reese’s frustration is clear, but as she takes to the court to prove herself, Caitlin Clark will have her own story to tell when she returns. One thing is certain: this second-year player rivalry is far from over.
