Before Caitlin Clark inked an eight-year, $28 million contract with Nike, she entertained offers from both Adidas and Under Armour.
Under Armour stepped up with a competitive proposal, offering $16 million over four years and the addition of a signature shoe line for Clark.
Adidas, however, came in with a less impressive four-year, $6 million offer, significantly lower than her other suitors. This disparity in valuation did not go unnoticed by the basketball community once the details went public.
Basketball enthusiasts criticized Adidas for what they perceived as an undervaluing of the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer. Comments ranged from calling Adidas’s offer “nonsense” and “disrespectful” to expressing disappointment in a brand they otherwise enjoyed.
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Clark, who has been collaborating with Nike since 2022, ultimately chose to continue her partnership with them. She cited the inspiration and motivation she gained from the brand as key factors in her decision. “They have inspired me to work hard and make a difference,” Clark stated upon signing with Nike, emphasizing her eagerness to inspire future generations.
Fans are now eagerly anticipating the release of Clark’s signature sneaker with Nike, which will mark another milestone in her burgeoning career.
Clark is set to debut in the WNBA on May 14th, when the Indiana Fever face off against the Connecticut Sun, adding further excitement for her followers and sports fans alike.