Caitlin Clark, the electrifying Indiana Fever guard and a walking highlight reel, has yet to confirm whether she’ll take her talents to the newly minted Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball league. But fans, being the Internet’s finest detectives, have wasted no time connecting every conceivable dot to predict her potential move. And honestly, who can blame them? When Clark steps on the court, it’s not just a game—it’s a spectacle.
The “22” Conspiracy
The frenzy kicked into high gear after Unrivaled announced its draft and player reveals, sponsored by State Farm, would occur Wednesday morning with a curiously precise end time of 11:22 a.m. Eastern. Coincidence? Fans think not. To them, the “22” screams Caitlin Clark, who just so happens to wear that number. Add in the fact that she’s the first college athlete to land an NIL deal with State Farm, and the theory practically writes itself. Somewhere, Sherlock Holmes is applauding.
Of course, this could all just be clever marketing. After all, if you’re launching a league, you might as well sprinkle some Clark-flavored breadcrumbs to keep the buzz alive. Still, the timing is suspicious. Could it really be that Unrivaled has been saving the best for last?
Fan Speculation Runs Wild
Social media, as expected, exploded with theories. One fan posted, “I think they’re giving her a million bucks, plus equity, just for Year 1. And honestly, I don’t want to wait until May to watch her play again.” Another chimed in, “I’ve been saying this forever. Expanding from 30 to 36 players? That screams they’re making room for Caitlin Clark.”
Then there’s the optimist who thinks Clark might join alongside Sabrina Ionescu, because why not dream big? If nothing else, Unrivaled has certainly succeeded in keeping the masses entertained and engaged.
Why Caitlin Clark Joining Would Be Game-Changing
If Clark does join Unrivaled, it’s a win-win. For her, it’s a chance to dominate in a new format and rake in the cash while the WNBA is in its offseason. For the league? Well, it’s like drafting Michael Jordan for a backyard pick-up game. John Skipper, former ESPN president and Unrivaled investor, didn’t mince words on Pablo Torre’s podcast:
“There are very few instances where one player can bring as much value as Caitlin Clark. If you’re starting a new league, the most impactful thing that could happen would be her playing in that first game.”
Translation? Clark isn’t just a player; she’s a brand. Her arrival would practically guarantee eyeballs, sponsorships, and maybe even a few detractors grudgingly tuning in. Love her or hate her, you can’t ignore her.
What Unrivaled Has to Offer
Unrivaled is no ordinary league. Co-founded by WNBA superstars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, it’s designed to give women athletes a platform to showcase their talents—and get paid handsomely for it. Big names like Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, Angel Reese, and Brittney Griner have already signed up for the inaugural season, which tips off in January in Florida.
The games will be broadcast on TNT Sports, so expect plenty of behind-the-back passes, dagger threes, and Twitter debates over who wore what better during post-game interviews.
So, Will She or Won’t She?
For now, it’s all speculation. Clark could very well stick to the WNBA and her NIL commitments. But if the rumors are true, and she does join Unrivaled, the league will go from exciting to must-watch overnight. As one fan aptly put it, “If Clark shows up, just take my money already.”
Regardless of what happens Wednesday morning, one thing’s clear: Caitlin Clark has the basketball world in the palm of her hand. Whether she’s raining threes in Unrivaled or lighting it up in the WNBA, she’s the player everyone wants to see. Stay tuned—because in the game of fan speculation, we’re all just trying to keep up.
