This week, the media spotlight focused on Caitlin Clark’s rookie salary with the Indiana Fever, sparking widespread discussion.
Selected first overall by the Fever after an illustrious career at Iowa, Clark’s base salary appears modest for the new face of women’s basketball—just over $76,000 for her first season and approximately $338,000 over her four-year rookie contract. This financial arrangement drew criticism from several prominent figures, including ‘Today’ show host Hoda Kotb, who expressed disbelief at the figures. “For somebody who is now the face of women’s basketball, it seemed kind of ridiculous,” Kotb commented. “There’s just something about this that’s so disturbing. I mean, I picture all the little girls with signs that say, ‘Caitlin!’ but this is what her contract is worth?”
Amidst the uproar, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert clarified that Clark’s actual earnings would far exceed her base salary. Speaking at a CNBC Changemakers event, Engelbert emphasized the additional income streams available to Clark, comparing her compensation structure to that of a CEO.
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“You don’t just count the base pay; you include bonuses, stock options, everything,” she explained. “Caitlin can earn up to half a million dollars in WNBA wages alone this year.”
Engelbert also highlighted the significant endorsement deals that bolster Clark’s income. “She has millions and millions of dollars in endorsements, and because she’s turned pro, those endorsements are even higher in value now that she has a global platform, not just a U.S. platform. She’s going to do just fine, as will other top players in the league,” Engelbert added.
Reports suggest that Clark has already secured a lucrative deal with Nike worth upwards of $20 million, affirming her marketability and the potential for female athletes to achieve financial success both on and off the court.
