Nike is reportedly on the verge of striking a lucrative endorsement deal with Indiana Fever rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark. Sources suggest that the deal could potentially reach eight figures, marking a significant milestone in Clark‘s career and signaling Nike’s investment in her future.
Included in the agreement is the provision for a signature shoe, a testament to Clark‘s impact on and off the court since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft. As reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Mike Vorkunov, and Ben Pickman, the two parties are close to reaching an agreement.
Caitlin Clark receives standing ovation as she is officially welcomed to Indiana Fever of the WNBA
The deal is reported to be worth an eight-figure sum.
Clark‘s journey to this point has been remarkable. Back in October 2022, she was among the select college athletes who inked groundbreaking NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals with Nike. With her collegiate tenure behind her, the 6’0″ guard had the opportunity to explore various sneaker deals, with Under Armour and Adidas also vying for her endorsement.
A huge deal for Clark
The magnitude of the deal shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering Clark‘s immense popularity and Nike’s track record of investing in promising rookies. Drawing parallels with basketball icons such LeBron James and Michael Jordan, who secured staggering deals upon entering the NBA, demonstrates the value placed on young talent with immense potential.
James penned a $90 million deal upon entering the NBA in 2003, while Michael Jordan earned an estimated $150 million from his Nike partnership in 2022, likely totaling at least $1.5 billion since 1986.
Clark‘s legacy at the University of Iowa speaks volumes. As the all-time leading scorer in Division I history and a two-time national player of the year, she has solidified her status as one of the most accomplished players of her generation.
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