Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, recently named WNBA Rookie of the Year, has reportedly been offered a lucrative contract by the new 3-on-3 basketball league, Unrivaled. The proposed deal, valued at over $1 million, includes an equity stake, making it more than ten times Clark’s current WNBA salary with the Indiana Fever. In her rookie season, Clark earned $76,535, with her four-year contract with the Fever totaling $338,056. Her WNBA salary pales in comparison to this potential offer, although Clark also holds a major endorsement deal with Nike worth $28 million over eight years.
Unrivaled, which will launch in Miami in January 2025, seeks to attract top WNBA players by offering competitive salaries and unique opportunities like equity stakes. Clark’s potential move to Unrivaled would add to her expanding portfolio and visibility as one of basketball’s rising stars. Despite the league’s clear interest, Unrivaled president Alex Bazzell emphasized that they’re giving Clark space to decide, stating, “We’re not applying a full court press… she knows that we have a spot for her when she’s ready.”
To further entice Clark, Unrivaled announced the addition of several familiar faces to its roster, including her Fever teammates Lexie Hull and Aliyah Boston, as well as her former Iowa teammate Kate Martin. This recruitment move aligns with the league’s recent expansion of roster spots from 30 to 36, ensuring an opening for Clark. According to co-founder Napheesa Collier, the league has exceeded its financial projections, allowing them to add more player positions and attract high-profile talent.
Unrivaled’s format promises a fast-paced experience, with six teams competing on a 70-foot court, an 18-second shot clock, and three 7-minute periods, culminating in a 15-point runoff in the final quarter. The season will run from January 17 to March 17, with 45 games broadcast on TNT Sports. The league will include an All-Star event on February 10 and a one-on-one tournament offering a $250,000 prize to the winner.
As one of the WNBA’s most promising talents, Clark’s potential move to Unrivaled could elevate the league’s profile and draw attention to its unique game format. Fans await her decision, which could reshape the future of women’s basketball both in the WNBA and beyond.
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