Missing From 4 Straight Games, Is Angel Reese out of Caitlin Clark-Led Race for National Player of the Year?

The LSU Tigers have made a terrific start to their NCAA title defense. The reigning national champions are currently ranked No.7 following their (7-1) record in the tournament so far. However, the absence of the Tigers’ kingpin Angel Reese is still a worrying sight for its fans.

The Bayou Barbie has been out of action ever since she was benched in the second half against LSU’s win over Kent State. Moreover, her absence is also a serious blow to her contention for the National Player Of The Year this season.

Angel Reese missing out

The rivalry between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark headlined the 2022-23 NCAA tournament. Both of them were the absolute best for their respective teams in their previous campaigns. As a result, they made it to the championship game last season. Although Caitlin lost the Finals to Reese’ LSU, she won all major national player of the year awards. Following this, both these players were frontrunners for this year’s National Players accolades as well. Unfortunately for Angel Reese, her journey this season has hit a major roadblock.

The All-American forward has not started for LSU in four consecutive games now. Apparently, Reese has been out of action and is facing a rumored suspension. Although, there is still no clarity provided on her exclusion by Mulkey or any other coaching staff. Nonetheless, the 2023 NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player has shown glimpses of brilliance in her opening matches. In the three matches played so far, Reese carries an impressive average of 17 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. In addition to this, she also has 1.5 assists per game and a field goal percentage of 46.9.

Read More- Why’s Angel Reese Not Playing For LSU?

On the other hand, the 2023 USBWA National Player of the Year–Caitlin Clark– has picked up from where she left last season.

How is Caitlin Clark’s season looking so far?

The 2023 AP Player of the Year, Caitlin Clark has made an explosive start to her season. She set the court on fire in the game against Virginia Tech in which she landed 44 points. Following her 9th career 40-point game, she has tied with Kelsey Plum for the most in Division I over the last 25 seasons. Furthermore, the dynamic Iowa point guard is averaging 29.6 points along with 6.4 rebounds per game. Also, she has a field goal percentage of 46.7 to go with her 7.5 assists.

At the moment, the No.22 of the Iowa Hawkeyes is holding a slight advantage over her rival. However, fans will be hoping that Reese makes a comeback soon and lights up the competition again.

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Come what may, there is no doubt that these two will highlight this year’s tournament as well with their immaculate performances.