It is no secret that the WNBA is seen as the “underdog” compared to the NBA and the ongoing fight for equality in sports; however, the WNBA has proven they are growing in more ways than one. There’s one particular player who is determined to break down barriers and change the game for women athletes by making the impossible possible! That player is WNBA’s No. 1 draft pick, Caitlin Clark.
The Impact of WNBA Clark’s Possible Nike Deal
According to reports, Indiana Fevers player #22, Caitlin Clark, is set to sign one of the biggest endorsement deals in basketball history with Nike that could be worth as much as $28M for a total of 8 years.
If you haven’t read or heard about it, the media went on a serious rant when it came to Caitlin Clark’s pay. Many people felt she deserved a higher salary, but then news broke on her possible Nike endorsement deal.
This Nike deal would be the largest endorsement contract ever given to a WNBA player. We are literally watching Caitlin Clark make history right before our eyes! There have also been rumors that if she accepts the endorsement deal, she will also have her very own signature shoe!
Many outlets have doted on Caitlin Clark and have shared their views and opinions on how she set the bar high by breaking multiple records, beginning with her college basketball career at the University of Iowa. She’s definitely a beast when it comes to scoring points! According to reports, Clark was undefeated in college and scored the most points throughout her entire college career.
Many reports have also shared how Clark’s amazing work ethic, skills, and being extremely smart played a huge part in her rising fame in the league – igniting the “Caitlin Clark Effect”. It is so inspiring to see a female athlete doing what she loves, and at the same time, she’s starting a movement!
Growth in the WNBA
Caitlin Clark’s strategic moves on and off the court are proof that the WNBA is changing for the better. Clark also has a huge fan base which means an increase in revenue for WNBA ticket sales. It was reported that she had over 17,000 fans attend her very first pro basketball game against the Liberty!
That’s a heck of a lot more people watching women’s basketball! It’s definitely a step in the right direction to push for an increase in the WNBA player’s overall salary pay.
WNBA – Increase in Popularity means Increase in Security
As the WNBA popularity increases, it’s critical for the league to increase security. Many have reported their concerns about fans that have questionable intentions.
According to ESPN, the WNBA has security briefings with teams and provides them with resources and guidance.
An increase in the league’s revenue may have played a part in allowing the WNBA to finally getting charter flights for the 2024 season, but let’s be honest, there are certain young players with a large following and as their popularity continues to grow, so does security measures.
Clark is paving the way for the next generation by changing the game and showing that it is possible for a female athlete to snag a high paying endorsement deal. During one of her interviews, Clark made this statement “I was just a young girl with dreams. If I can do it, so can you!”
About the Author:
Shameka Dixon grew up in a family where sports was the topic of discussion! She also played sports herself, but the sport she loved the most was softball. She is a mother to five beautiful little people and she hopes they all follow in her footsteps and develop a love for sports as well. Shameka also covers entertainment, TV shows, movies, books, and more!
