HOUSTON – The news of Caitlin Clark’s Nike deal, dubbed “Giant Leap for Women’s Basketball,” has sparked a significant debate. While WNBA stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Aliyah Boston, Chelsea Gray, and Brittany Griner may have their own partnership deals, none have reached the magnitude of Clark’s.
As the all-time NCAA basketball scoring leader, Clark’s potential impact on the WNBA, despite not having worn a uniform yet, is already projected to make her the highest-paid league rookie ever.
The 2024 WNBA Draft Class stars with Clark include Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, Cameron Brink, Aaliyah Edwards, and Rickea Jackson. Reese recently signed significant endorsement deals, but Clark’s eight-year, $28 million agreement with Nike could become the foundation for players.
Shaquille O’Neal signed Reese to an NIL in October with Reebok. Could he follow up with a mega-deal for the Chicago Sky draftee? Reese will have a new nickname, “Chi Barbie,” look for her to capitalize on a new marketing effort from her representatives.
Cardoso, Edwards, and Brink will be the notable names in line for prominent endorsements before the league tips off in May.
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