As one of the most talked-about rookies in WNBA history, it seems natural to expect that Nike would be eager to offer Caitlin Clark her own signature shoe deal. However, according to insider Ethan Strauss, Nike might be deliberately holding off on Clark to prioritize someone else first.
“The decision not to capitalize on Clark isn’t just a coincidence—it reflects deeper issues within the company,” Strauss notes. “Conversations with those in the know suggest it has to do with WNBA MVP and Nike athlete A’ja Wilson. But more broadly, it points to a corporate culture focused on silencing noise rather than generating it, as Nike once did.”
Nike seems to favor a specific kind of athlete—one who avoids controversy, maintains a strong presence in their sport, and respects the legacy of those who came before. At this point, Clark hasn’t fully reached that standard, which is why Nike is still heavily invested in A’ja Wilson, the reigning WNBA MVP.
Wilson recently secured her second unanimous MVP award, cementing her status as the top player in the league. Over 38 games with the Aces, she averaged 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 51.8%. Her career accolades now include three MVPs, two WNBA championships, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Through it all, she has remained humble, keeping a low profile and maintaining her professionalism.
Although Wilson is already a Nike athlete, it’s evident that she deserves more attention from the brand. Despite her dominance, she has yet to receive a signature shoe, and her presence in Nike’s marketing efforts has been relatively minimal.
In contrast, Caitlin Clark is making waves in her first season, and some believe the attention she’s getting isn’t entirely warranted. Her stellar Rookie of the Year campaign featured averages of 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game on 41.7% shooting, attracting a surge of new fans to the WNBA.
However, while many are eager to anoint Clark as the next face of women’s basketball, some argue that the hype is premature. She’s become a focal point for tough defense and hard fouls from opponents like Angel Reese, and though her shooting and skills are celebrated, others in the basketball world are cautioning against rushing to crown her just yet.
Some fans feel the WNBA, its players, and even Nike are against Clark and want to see her falter. But from the league’s perspective, and seemingly Nike’s as well, she hasn’t yet earned the level of respect and recognition her supporters are pushing for.
For now, Clark will have to wait. If she can exceed her rookie performance in the coming season, perceptions may start to shift. If not, she may face even more criticism, with a tougher road ahead to win back the broader fanbase.
