Caitlin Clark set to ink record Nike deal valued at $28m over eight years [View all]

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2024/apr/23/caitlin-clark-nike-contract-signature-shoe-deal-indiana-fever



Caitlin Clark appears to be on the cusp of setting another record. The most prolific scorer in NCAA Division I history and the No 1 overall pick in the WNBA draft will continue her association with Nike by signing a $28m contract that spans eight years and includes a signature shoe.

The Wall Street Journal and The Athletic reported the pending deal, citing unnamed people familiar with the negotiations between the sportswear giant and Clark’s agents. Excel Sports Management, which represents Clark, declined to comment. Nike did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Associated Press.

Clark’s initial name, image and likeness deal, signed in 2022, expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. The new deal would be the richest sponsorship contract for a women’s basketball player. Under Armour and Adidas also participated in contract discussions with Clark’s team in February, according to the WSJ and Athletic. Puma also showed some interest but walked away when told the bidding would start at $3m per year, according to the WSJ.

Clark received offers of $16m over four years from Under Armour and $6m over four years from Adidas, with both including a signature shoe, according to the WSJ. Clark earned about $3m in NIL money at Iowa with deals she has had with State Farm, Gatorade and others, according to On3.com.

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