WATCH: Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s connection in WNBA All-Star game shows elite IQ from both rookies

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese played for the first time together during WNBA All-Star game.

WATCH: Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s connection in WNBA All-Star game shows elite IQ from both rookies

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese's 4th quarter connection in WNBA All-Star game shows elite IQ from both rookies

When Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were selected for their first WNBA All-Star game, fans of the game were ecstatic. As it would be the first time during their rivalry that the two would be teammates. Naturally, fans in the Footprint Arena brought out the loudest cheers when a connection between the two rookies led to a score. However, a new video shows the rookies and their understanding of the game.

The video was shot from a camera placed above the shot clock. In the video, after Team USA scores, Caitlin Clark in a split-second noticed the space on the floor and shouted out at Angel Reese:

Go, go, go.
Caitlin Clark to Angel Reese during the All-Star game
YouTube video

Hearing this, the Chicago Sky forward sprinted, but Clark caught up with her speed. Seeing this, Reese tapped her head with her right hand, signaling that they could run a pick and roll.

FS Video

Once the Indiana Fever rookie noticed that she crossed behind her fellow rookie and dribbled to the left side of the court. She then hesitated for a split second to slow down her defender, then accelerated to the basket. Seeing this, Team USA’s Brittney Griner moved towards her to stop a potential layup. But that left Reese with space. Clark then sent a bounce pass which Reese caught to make the layup and score.

This shows that their knowledge of the game, awareness of opponents, and ability to dissect mismatches are leagues beyond what rookies are generally known for. No wonder the double-double record holder mentioned that she loved to play alongside Clark.

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Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese resetting rookie expectations

Before the two even thought of entering the league, veterans warned that it was not easy in the WNBA for rookies. They might have been right as Sabrina Ionescu and Kelsey Plum are current superstars who struggled as rookies.

That said, no one envisioned Angel Reese to post a new WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles. That too in her rookie season. She is well on course to break the record for double-doubles in a season. On the other hand, Caitlin Clark just set the single-game assist record before the All-Star break. After struggling initially, she has elevated her play and is in contention to set the single-season assist record.

That and a couple of other rookie records can eventually have her name on them. This shows that the two have essentially banished the prejudice. It has also cleared the way for other rookies entering the league to play their way to the top. Elevating the competitiveness of the game as they go.

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