In a plot twist that might just rival a Hollywood rom-com, Caitlin Clark, Iowa’s golden basketball icon, is caught in a “will she or won’t she?” situation with the budding 3×3 league, Unrivaled. Meanwhile, her former Hawkeye teammate, Kate Martin, has already slipped in through the backdoor. And in case you missed it, Martin’s entry is set to shake up Unrivaled’s already spicy lineup.
For those following Clark’s dazzling career, this indecision over a $1 million contract offer (and possibly, a throne in the 3×3 empire) has kept fans on edge. Unrivaled reportedly threw everything at Clark but the kitchen sink: a base salary of a cool million, equity in the league, revenue-sharing rights, bonuses, and what some insiders even call a “Messi-like” contract. Talk about a gold-plated welcome mat! Yet, Clark, the superstar from Des Moines, has kept her lips sealed.
Meanwhile, Kate Martin—fondly dubbed “Money” by her Las Vegas Aces teammates—swiped the spotlight. Her role with the Aces last season was more of a supporting actress than the lead, clocking just 11.5 minutes a game. But she made every second count, even dropping a career-best 13 points against the LA Sparks, a performance that had fans whispering she’s the “next big thing.” Now she’s headed to Unrivaled, but the million-dollar question remains: did Clark have anything to do with it?
Cue the TikTok reunion video. A little over a week ago, Clark and Martin reconnected with Iowa pals Gabbie Marshall and Jada Gyamfi, setting social media abuzz with their Kardashian-esque video: “Hi guys, we’re back. Did you miss us?” Speculation ran wild—was it just a fun reunion, or were they plotting something bigger? Whatever it was, Unrivaled was watching closely, likely taking notes on what it would take to finally land Clark.
Yet, Clark seems to be putting 3×3 on pause. Currently, she’s training for an upcoming Pro-Am event in November and has reportedly been house-hunting in Indiana, a clue that has some fans groaning that she may ghost Unrivaled altogether. Let’s not forget, she famously turned down Ice Cube’s Big3 league last year, leading some to wonder if she’s holding out for an even better offer or maybe…a less crowded court.
One thing’s for sure: Martin has capitalized on the spotlight, living up to her “Money” nickname with her move to Unrivaled. Some say we might see an all-new side of her game in this high-intensity, street-style format. While fans are glued to the edge of their seats waiting for Clark’s decision, Martin is already lacing up, ready to prove she can shine just as brightly.
In a world where stars don’t just play the game but bring crowds to their feet, Unrivaled is banking on charisma as much as skill. Whether Clark finally makes her move or Martin takes her place as the league’s new favorite, it’s shaping up to be an off-season worth watching.