As the race for WNBA Rookie of the Year heats up, a legendary voice has entered the conversation—and her pick is turning heads. Sue Bird, the iconic point guard whose career helped define women’s basketball for a generation, has thrown her support behind Chicago Sky standout Angel Reese. In a season crowded with exceptional first-year talent, Bird’s endorsement is more than just a compliment—it’s a seismic statement about what it means to be truly impactful in the league.

A Surprising Endorsement

Bird’s comments came during a recent media appearance, where she was asked to weigh in on the most impressive rookies of the season. While many expected her to side with the statistical leaders or the most hyped newcomers, Bird’s answer was unequivocal: Angel Reese.

“If not for her injury, she’d still be my top choice for Rookie of the Year,” Bird said, her words quickly making waves across the WNBA community. “She dominates. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about how she changes the game every time she steps on the court.”

For a player who has only just begun her professional journey, such high praise from a Hall of Famer is no small thing. Bird’s status as one of the most respected voices in basketball means her opinions carry significant weight—not only with fans and analysts but also with players and coaches around the league.

Making an Impact from Day One

Angel Reese’s rookie campaign has been nothing short of electric. Drafted by the Chicago Sky with high expectations, Reese wasted no time making her presence felt. Her aggressive rebounding, relentless defense, and infectious energy have made her a cornerstone of the Sky’s lineup and a highlight machine for fans.

From the opening tip of her first game, Reese played with a confidence and physicality that belied her age. She crashed the boards with authority, often outmuscling seasoned veterans for rebounds. On defense, she showcased a knack for anticipation and positioning, altering shots and forcing turnovers. Offensively, she provided timely scoring and unselfish playmaking, helping to elevate her teammates.

But what truly sets Reese apart, as Bird noted, is her intangible impact—the way she energizes her team and shifts the momentum of a game simply by being on the floor.

Overcoming Adversity

Reese’s rookie season has not been without its challenges. An untimely injury sidelined her for a stretch, threatening to derail her momentum and dim her Rookie of the Year prospects. But even in limited action, Reese’s imprint on the Sky—and on the league—remained unmistakable.

“She’s a difference-maker,” said Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon. “You can feel it when she’s out there. She brings a spark that lifts everyone around her.”

Bird echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that dominance isn’t always measured in box scores. “It’s easy to look at stats and make a case, but sometimes you have to watch the game to understand a player’s true value,” Bird explained. “Angel has that ‘it’ factor—you can’t teach it, you can’t coach it. She just has it.”

Fans Rally Behind Reese

Bird’s endorsement has only amplified the chorus of voices advocating for Reese’s recognition. Across social media, fans have shared highlights of Reese’s most memorable moments—monster rebounds, clutch defensive stops, and emotional celebrations that have endeared her to the Chicago faithful.

“She’s changed the culture here,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “Rookie of the Year or not, Angel Reese is a star.”

Others have pointed out that Reese’s leadership and energy have helped the Sky weather adversity, keeping them competitive in a season marked by ups and downs. Her ability to inspire teammates and ignite crowds has made her one of the most influential new faces in the league.

Redefining Rookie Success

In a year loaded with standout rookies, the Rookie of the Year debate has been especially intense. While some argue for the statistical leaders, Bird’s comments have reignited a broader conversation about what it truly means to be the best.

“Rookie of the Year isn’t just about points per game or double-doubles,” said ESPN analyst LaChina Robinson. “It’s about impact. It’s about who changes the game, who elevates their team, and who leaves a mark every single night. Angel Reese does all of that.”

As the regular season winds down, the spotlight on Reese only grows brighter. Whether or not she ultimately takes home the Rookie of the Year hardware, her rookie season has already redefined what’s possible for first-year players in the WNBA.

The Bird Effect

For Angel Reese, the endorsement from a legend like Sue Bird is more than validation—it’s a challenge to keep pushing, keep growing, and keep dominating.

“To have someone like Sue Bird say that about me, it means everything,” Reese said after hearing of Bird’s comments. “But I’m not done yet. I want to keep proving myself and help my team win.”

With the support of fans, coaches, and now one of the greatest players of all time, Angel Reese’s place among the WNBA’s rising stars is secure. In a league built on trailblazers and game-changers, she’s already shown she belongs.