What’s in store for CC?
Caitlin Clark has concluded her illustrious collegiate career with a remarkable performance. The Iowa standout, who has been named national player of the year twice, unfortunately experienced a second consecutive loss in the national championship game as South Carolina completed a flawless season.
Clark, a supernova-like logo shooter, has captured the hearts and attention of millions in the past couple of seasons. With a remarkable ability to rewrite the scoring record books, Clark has cemented his status as one of the most transformative stars in the world of sports, all at the young age of 22. In a state with a rich basketball legacy that has produced exceptional women’s basketball players, Clark stands head and shoulders above the competition.
The Des Moines native has plenty in store for what’s next. And the upcoming three weeks are bound to be a whirlwind.
Clark is widely anticipated to be the first pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, which is scheduled for April 15 in New York. The Indiana Fever holds the top pick and is expected to select Clark, thus pairing her with Aliyah Boston, the top pick of the 2023 draft. Boston, a standout player from South Carolina, showcased her skills at the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game, averaging 14.5 points and 8.4 rebounds. With her dominating presence in the paint, she will undoubtedly benefit from Clark’s exceptional passing abilities.
WNBA training camps are set to open on April 28, signaling the start of an exciting season for the Fever. Preseason games have been scheduled for May 3 against Dallas and May 10 against Atlanta, both taking place in Indianapolis. The official tip-off for the WNBA season will be on May 14, with the Fever hitting the court against the Sun. Given the popularity of the team and the phenomenon known as “Clarkonomics,” it is highly likely that the Fever will not only sell out their first game but also enjoy packed houses for all their home games.
The Indiana team will have a total of 26 games scheduled before the Olympic break commences on July 21. This break is specifically for the Paris Games and will extend until August 14.
Will Clark have a busy schedule during that time?
While she was unable to attend the recent USA Basketball training camp due to her commitments with Iowa, there is still a possibility for Clark to be added to the roster. With the Americans aiming for their seventh consecutive gold medal and being considered the favorites in Paris, including Clark in the Olympic team could potentially boost viewership.
Many people, including four-time WNBA champion Sue Bird, are confident that Clark will be selected for the WNBA All-Star team in her first year, regardless of whether she makes the Olympic team or not. A highly anticipated exhibition match between the WNBA All-Stars and the Olympic team is set to take place on July 20.
Clark has secured several lucrative endorsement deals that will remain active as she transitions to the professional level. Consequently, she won’t need to play overseas during the winter like many other WNBA players often do to supplement their income. Despite being a rookie, Clark has the potential to earn a maximum salary of $76,535, with the possibility of additional bonuses tied to winning the Commissioner’s Cup.
The upcoming months are going to be filled with a flurry of activities and tasks.
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