As the 2024 U.S. presidential election looms just a day away, everyone’s talking about politics… and apparently, Caitlin Clark’s shooting skills, too. Former President Donald Trump, one of the two major candidates, recently weighed in on Clark’s skills, salary, and, yes, her potential in the NBA. That’s right — Trump wants to know if the WNBA star could hold her own against the NBA giants.
During an appearance on the “Let’s Go” podcast, Trump, who isn’t exactly known for his sports analysis, had some strong opinions on Clark’s jump shot. “She is incredible, by the way. I watch her,” he said, adding with what could only be called enthusiasm, “I watch her shot go in, and for a minute I thought, Can she shoot like that in the NBA? She is unbelievable.” The former president then proceeded to praise her potential as a future face of the WNBA, expressing hope that Clark “makes a lot of money.”
But here’s the kicker — that “lot of money” might still be pocket change compared to her male counterparts. Clark, who recently wrapped up a rookie season that could only be described as legendary, earned $76,535 this past year and is slated to max out at under $100,000 by the end of her rookie contract. That’s a far cry from what even a middling NBA benchwarmer might make in a season. But Clark isn’t going broke anytime soon. Thanks to a massive $28 million endorsement deal with Nike, she’s doing just fine.
“Likes, Not Votes: Where Caitlin Clark Stands”
Despite Trump’s admiration for Clark, it doesn’t look like the Iowa sharpshooter is in his corner politically. Clark has stayed publicly mum on endorsements but was spotted among the millions who “liked” a post by pop superstar Taylor Swift, where Swift endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. When asked about it, Clark played it cool, sidestepping any overt political commentary. Instead, she said she wants to use her influence to get people out to vote — a subtle way of staying diplomatic amid election season.
In an almost poetic twist, Clark’s rookie paycheck may be a lot smaller than some NBA contracts, but her fans — and the former president himself — seem to agree that her impact is far bigger. Meanwhile, WNBA fans are left wondering: could we someday see Clark drain threes in the NBA? Will her massive endorsement money help bridge the wage gap? Or will she just keep lighting up WNBA courts, making her underpaid salary look like a bargain?
As Election Day approaches, America might be deciding on its next president, but Caitlin Clark already has one thing locked down: the support of everyone who appreciates a good shot — politics aside.
