The Indiana Fever are the most popular team in the WNBA because of Caitlin Clark. The number one overall pick is changing the entire sport. Indiana sold out games nationwide as Clark brought millions of fans to the W. She finished fourth in MVP voting and won Rookie of the Year in a historic and unforgettable season.
Clark’s popularity has not stopped at selling tickets. Her signature Wilson basketball sold out in less than 40 minutes (subscription required). Clark-mania is sweeping the country. Everyone wants to see her play, and the 22-year-old is the next generation's favorite player.
Despite her success, Nike is not pushing Clark as their stock price falls. The 22-year-old inked an eight-year deal with Nike for $28 million in April. The company has questions to answer.
Caitlin Clark can bring Nike back if they let her
Nike is struggling, and the answer to their problems is already on their roster. Everything that has to do with Clark sells. From tickets to balls to merchandise, it flies off the shelves. She isn’t selling for Nike because the company is not offering the products.
Here’s how Nike is celebrating. I believe this is their first tweet about Caitlin since draft night. https://t.co/TTd721gOMo
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) October 3, 2024
Clark should have her own signature shoe and an apparel line. Nike must embrace her as one of the faces of the company and create products for fans. They likely would have made the $28 million back plus a heap of profit if the company went all-in on selling Clark.
It is not that Nike isn’t investing in women’s basketball. Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson has a signature shoe, but the giant has not pushed Clark. Wilson is more than deserving of her own shoe. There are multiple NBA players who have Nike shoes. Why is Clark not getting the same treatment?
The brand is undergoing leadership changes, which could quickly change things. If Nike wants to get out of a tricky spot and boost its stock price, it should push Caitlin Clark. She is one of the hottest names in sports. Clark’s shoes would be sold out in minutes if Nike dropped them ahead of the 2025 season. It is just on the company to make it happen.
Caitlin Clark is the face of the WNBA and the Indiana Fever. Does she add Nike to that list? Her endorsement deal runs through 2032. It is on the company to push her. So far, that hasn’t happened. Expect a change and with it will come a ton of needed sales for The Swoosh.