Caitlin Clark, a standout basketball player at the University of Iowa, is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. However, she has received a lucrative offer from Ice Cube’s Big3 Basketball League worth $5 million. The offer would allow Clark to play in the league’s regular season and playoffs without affecting her WNBA eligibility. The WNBA has not commented on Clark potentially playing in both leagues, but a league spokesperson mentioned that she could potentially earn up to $500,000 in her rookie season, along with additional income from endorsements.
Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes are currently competing in the Sweet 16 of the women’s NCAA Tournament. A win in their upcoming game would advance them to the Elite Eight, while a loss would mark the end of Clark’s impressive college career. As the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, Clark has been breaking scoring records consistently throughout her collegiate career. With the Indiana Fever expected to select her as the top overall pick in the WNBA Draft, Clark is set to continue her professional career with a team that had a difficult season in 2023.
Ice Cube highlighted the Big3’s commitment to promoting women in basketball, citing examples such as Nancy Lieberman and Lisa Leslie. He mentioned that the league has a history of breaking down barriers for women in sports, and that Clark has the potential to make history by joining the Big3. Ice Cube emphasized the importance of providing more opportunities for women athletes in the United States, particularly in light of limited earning potential in overseas leagues during the WNBA offseason. He stated that the Big3’s offer to Clark demonstrates that there are alternative professional options available for female athletes.
While there are other professional basketball leagues available for women, such as Athletes Unlimited Basketball and the upcoming Unrivaled 3-on-3 league led by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, none can match the salary offered by the Big3 to Clark. The league’s offer provides an additional choice for female athletes seeking competitive and lucrative opportunities in the United States. Ice Cube emphasized the importance of offering women more than one professional option, especially as American sports leagues face challenges from autocratic and anti-women regimes like Qatar. The potential for Clark to earn a substantial salary in the Big3 raises the question of whether she will accept the offer and join the league.
As the decision-making process for Caitlin Clark unfolds, the basketball community awaits her choice regarding the Big3’s offer. With her impressive talent and record-breaking success in college basketball, Clark has the potential to make a significant impact in the professional basketball world. Whether she decides to pursue the WNBA, the Big3, or another professional opportunity, Clark’s decision will undoubtedly shape her future in the sport. Ice Cube’s bold offer to Clark highlights the growing opportunities for women athletes in the United States and the potential for new paths to success in professional basketball.
