Sue Bird Calls Caitlin Clark a Weird Nickname Never Seen Before—Is Her $11 Million Payday Proof She’s Right?

Caitlin Clark’s reported $11.1 million earnings in 2024 have made waves across women’s basketball, sparking conversations about the WNBA’s growth and the evolving opportunities for its athletes.

Among those weighing in on the Iowa superstar’s landmark year is WNBA legend Sue Bird, who sees Clark’s success as a pivotal moment for the league.

Sue Bird reflects on Caitlin Clark breaking barriers

Bird acknowledged Clark’s extraordinary influence, attributing her financial success to a combination of talent and marketability.

“To me, it’s like for a league to hit it, for a league to be successful, for a league to have longevity, and now to see for a player in a league to be able to garner money off the court in this way, some of it is just because it’s Caitlin Clark,”Bird said.

The four-time WNBA champion emphasized how Clark’s partnerships with major brands, such as Nike, are creating a ripple effect.

“She’s a little bit of a catalyst because now that you’re seeing brands invest in her, they know that she’s going to be seen in the WNBA. And so, those brands are now also going to invest in the WNBA. It’s going to just break the door open for all this investment to come in, and that’s ultimately how the league will grow.”

Clark’s earnings thanks to sponsors, not WNBA salary

A significant portion of Clark’s earnings stemmed from sponsorships, with her rookie salary of $76,535 playing a minor role.

Despite ranking 10th on the list of highest-paid female athletes, Clark’s financial achievements are notable, considering her rookie status.

For context, tennis star Coco Gauff topped the list with $30 million, while Clark’s endorsement deals, including a $28 million contract with Nike, underscored her growing influence.

Clark’s decision to forego participating in the inaugural Unrivaled league also highlighted her focus on managing her time and opportunities.

While she expressed openness to joining in the future, financial considerations reportedly factored into her choice.

As Clark continues to break barriers, Bird’s remarks underline the broader potential for WNBA athletes to benefit from increased investment, ensuring a brighter future for women’s basketball.