As one of the biggest rookie sensations in WNBA history, many would expect Nike to rush to sign Caitlin Clark to her own signature shoe deal. However, according to insider Ethan Strauss, Nike may be holding off for a reason – and that reason has a lot to do with WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson.
Strauss suggests that Nike’s hesitation to capitalize on Clark’s growing popularity is linked to its current focus on Wilson, one of the league’s top stars. “The decision to hold off on making money from Clark isn’t just coincidental,” Strauss noted. “It’s connected to A’ja Wilson and a broader company culture at Nike that’s more interested in avoiding controversy than making a big splash like it used to.”
Nike has always been particular about the athletes it chooses to elevate with a signature shoe. They typically select players who are not only stars but also those who manage to stay out of trouble and navigate the competitive landscape without disrupting the established hierarchy. Caitlin Clark, while immensely talented, hasn’t quite reached that point yet, and Nike appears to be prioritizing its investment in A’ja Wilson, the reigning WNBA MVP.
A’ja Wilson’s Dominance and Nike’s Focus
Wilson’s dominance is undeniable. Recently voted WNBA MVP for the second time unanimously, her 2023 season with the Las Vegas Aces was stellar, with averages of 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game on 51.8% shooting. Her career now boasts three MVP awards, two WNBA championships, and two Defensive Player of the Year honors. Yet despite her accolades, Wilson has not yet received the full attention from Nike that many feel she deserves, such as her own signature shoe or frequent appearances in high-profile campaigns.
While Wilson is already a Nike athlete, it’s clear that the company is working to give her the recognition she has more than earned, especially considering her status as the best player in the league. Nike seems to be waiting to amplify Wilson’s brand before shifting focus to other emerging stars like Clark.
Caitlin Clark’s Rising Star and the Debate Around Her Fame
On the other side, Caitlin Clark has been making significant noise in the WNBA. Her rookie season was impressive, with averages of 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game on 41.7% shooting. Clark’s performance attracted new fans to the WNBA and generated significant buzz, with some fans ready to crown her as the next big thing in women’s basketball.
However, not everyone agrees with the rapid hype surrounding Clark. Some critics argue that while she’s had an impressive rookie year, she hasn’t yet done enough to warrant the level of fame she’s receiving. Additionally, Clark has faced tough competition from her peers, including players like Angel Reese, who have not been shy about putting pressure on her both on and off the court.
Clark’s meteoric rise has made her a target for hard fouls and tough defensive matchups, and some believe that the WNBA and its players may not be fully on board with her rise to stardom just yet. Nike, too, seems to be taking a more cautious approach, waiting to see if Clark can maintain her performance before giving her the same recognition as other top-tier athletes.
The Future of Caitlin Clark and Nike
For now, Clark’s fans will have to wait. If she can return next season and improve upon her already impressive rookie campaign, there’s a strong chance that Nike – and the rest of the league – will start to take her more seriously as a face of women’s basketball. Until then, the focus remains on A’ja Wilson, and Clark may have to prove herself further before getting the respect and recognition that her supporters believe she deserves.
Ultimately, Caitlin Clark’s future with Nike depends on whether she can build on her early success and earn a spot among the WNBA’s elite. As it stands, the company’s attention is still fixed on Wilson, the reigning MVP, who is finally starting to receive the full spotlight she’s earned.