Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, has declined a lucrative offer from Ice Cube’s Big3 league to join the Indiana Fever. The Big3 reportedly offered Clark a contract worth over $15 million, including a $10 million salary over two years, a percentage of ownership in her team, half of merch revenue, and a stake in a Big3 documentary. However, Clark has opted to join the WNBA, where she will earn a base salary of $78,000 with the Indiana Fever.
Despite the lower base salary in the WNBA, Clark will benefit from increased national television exposure, which will provide her with more opportunities for sponsorship deals. She has already signed a massive eight-year, $28 million contract with Nike, making her one of the highest-paid players in the league. As part of the deal, Clark will also get her own signature shoe, a significant achievement for any athlete.
Clark’s decision to join the WNBA is a testament to her commitment to the growth and development of women’s basketball. By choosing to play in the WNBA, she is helping to raise the profile of the league and inspire young girls to pursue their dreams in sports.
Big3 co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz has expressed disappointment over Clark’s decision, suggesting that she may not have been fully informed about the Big3 offer. However, Clark has made it clear that she is excited to join the WNBA and is focused on her goals for the upcoming season.
