It seems Caitlin Clark’s basketball career is taking her from rookie sensation to the belle of the free-agent ball — and no, it’s not about more time on the WNBA hardwood. Rumor has it that Clark, fresh off her debut season with the Indiana Fever, is being wooed with an eye-popping offer from the new Unrivaled basketball league. How big, you ask? Try 10 times her WNBA salary.
For reference, Clark’s rookie contract nets her $76,535 per year. Unrivaled is apparently offering north of a million bucks — with a side of equity — to grace its 3-on-3 courts. And the temptation to switch leagues isn’t just about the dollar signs; there’s the allure of fame, prime-time exposure, and, of course, the one-on-one bragging rights.
The fledgling Unrivaled league has been aggressively recruiting talent, even securing some of Clark’s closest allies to ease her transition. Three players with ties to Clark — Indiana teammates Lexie Hull and Aliyah Boston, plus former Iowa buddy Kate Martin — have already inked deals. If anything, Unrivaled is putting the “full-court press” on this recruitment, despite what league president Alex Bazzell is saying.
“We’re letting her decompress,” Bazzell shared with Sportico, claiming they’re not pushing Clark too hard. “She knows we have a spot for her when she’s ready.” But with a $1M carrot dangled in front of her, how much relaxing can one do?
The WNBA’s top brass is keeping close tabs, aware that Clark’s decision could set off a trend. But it’s hard to deny the appeal of Unrivaled’s flashy 14-game season — played on a compact 70-foot court with an 18-second shot clock and three 7-minute periods. It’s all capped with a “Final Four” knockout tournament, prime-time coverage on TNT, and a $250,000 one-on-one prize. If Clark joins, she’d instantly become Unrivaled’s headliner.
Beyond court time and sponsorships, Clark has a $28 million deal with Nike in her pocket. So it’s not like she needs the cash. But the allure of pioneering this new format — with fast-paced, defense-optional rules — might be enough to lure her in. And, let’s be real, if anyone’s got the range and finesse for a three-on-three spectacle, it’s Caitlin Clark.
Meanwhile, six spiffy new team names have already been announced — the Laces, Mist, Rose, Lunar Owls, Phantom, and Vinyl — each begging for a powerhouse player to rep their brand. Opening night is slated for Jan. 17 in Miami, with six more roster spots up for grabs, one of which Unrivaled’s founders hope Clark will fill.
Whether Clark jumps ship or not, Unrivaled’s debut is going to be must-see TV, not to mention a brand-new chapter in pro women’s basketball. But if Clark does decide to give the new league a shot, let’s hope her Indiana Fever coaches are ready to see their star player putting in “extra practice” this off-season — just not in Indiana.
