Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark celebrated a remarkable 3-pointer on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, during a game against the Connecticut Sun at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Indiana Fever triumphed over the Connecticut Sun with a score of 88-71. Yet, the spotlight on Clark extends beyond her on-court achievements, as a provocative theory about her potential to start her own basketball league gains traction.
This speculation, as improbable as it may seem, owes its persistence to Christine Brennan, a seasoned USA Today columnist and author of “On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports.” During a recent radio appearance on ESPN LA, Brennan was asked a question that might have seemed laughable a year ago: Could Caitlin Clark actually start her own league?
The Caitlin Clark Effect
The question arises in the context of the “Caitlin Clark effect,” a phenomenon underscored by soaring ratings and an unprecedented surge in interest surrounding women’s basketball. Clark has already turned down a lucrative offer to join Unrivaled, a startup 3-on-3 league, highlighting her influence and marketability. However, the leap from declining a project to launching a competing league is substantial.
Despite the challenges, Brennan did not dismiss the idea outright. Her comments have reignited discussions about Clark’s potential to reshape the landscape of women’s basketball.
Christine Brennan’s Perspective
Christine Brennan, known for her controversial takes, previously faced backlash for questioning the intentions of Connecticut Sun’s DiJonai Carrington in a game against Clark. Brennan’s framing of Clark’s role and the WNBA’s protection of its star players has been a point of contention.
During her ESPN LA appearance, Brennan elaborated on Clark’s marketability, stating:
“Nike loves her. She’s got Wilson, obviously. She’s got Gatorade. Even though the salary’s $76,000 for a rookie — it’s more this year now — she’s making $28 million from Nike alone, according to the Wall Street Journal. So she’s at $40 million, whatever. Okay, fine, she’s doing great. And if Nike said, ‘We’re going to make the Nike-Clark league,’ it would obviously take a few years to get the arenas and whatever.”
Is a New League Feasible?
The idea of a “Nike-Clark league” may seem like a far-fetched sports radio soundbite, yet Brennan’s refusal to dismiss it outright lends it some credibility. The potential for such a league hinges on Clark’s unparalleled ability to draw viewers, as Brennan noted:
“It’s Caitlin. Again, the TV viewership, it’s Caitlin Clark. It’s not Angel [Reese] and Caitlin. It’s Caitlin. It’s Caitlin Clark only.”
While Brennan’s theory might appear speculative, it underscores a broader conversation about the WNBA’s current leadership and its ability to capitalize on Clark’s popularity. The league’s future could depend on how effectively it builds around its most marketable star.
Future Implications
The notion of Caitlin Clark spearheading a new league remains speculative, yet it highlights the potential for transformative change in women’s sports. As the WNBA navigates its path forward, the league’s ability to retain and promote its stars will be crucial. Clark’s influence extends beyond the court, and her decisions could shape the future of women’s basketball.
In conclusion, while Christine Brennan’s theory may seem like a fantasy, it serves as a reminder of Caitlin Clark’s significant impact on the sport. As discussions continue, the basketball world will watch closely to see how Clark’s career unfolds and whether her influence will lead to new opportunities in women’s sports.
