Basketball World in Turmoil: Caitlin Clark’s Shocking Snub of the Unrivaled League Sparks Fierce Fan Wars and Industry Backlash

Fans are backing the Indiana Fever star as well

Caitlin ClarkLAPRESSE

There were plenty of fans who were disappointed when word broke that Caitlin Clark would not be taking part in the Unrivaled League.

The decision came after what was a busy rookie campaign for the 23-year-old, who was taken first overall in the WNBA Draft. After leading the Indiana Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016, Clark was named Rookie of the Year after what was a record-breaking campaign.

With her popularity continuing to soar, some fans were surprised to hear she would not be participating in the Unrivaled League, which kicked off earlier this month. The league offers an opportunity for WNBA players to add to their income during the offseason.

However, a source close to the league stated that Clark was focusing on her rest and recovery after her hectic first season in the WNBA. The source also added that Clark didn’t need the exposure the league would bring given how popular she already is.

The Unrivaled League features a 14-game schedule that will be broadcast on TNT Sports and MAX, and while it gives players a chance to earn more money, it also comes at a cost in terms of their rest and preparation for the upcoming WNBA season.

Fans back Clark’s decision

However with fans having seen what the Unrivaled League is all about, there are plenty who believe that Clark made the correct decision in sitting out.

“Caitlin Clark made the right choice opting not to play this inaugural Unrivaled season. This is pretty hectic. I think the rest will serve her well,” one fan wrote on X.

Another added: “The fast pace in Unrivaled got me hooked.”

A third wrote: “So far Im really liking Unrivaled. The pace and intensity is there.”

Clark is coming off a rookie WNBA season in which she averaged 19.2 points, 5.6 turnovers, 1.3 steals, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game.

Her play on court saw her be named to the WNBA All-Star team, and she was included in the All-WNBA First Team and the WNBA All-Rookie Team. She was also named Rookie of the Year, and named TIME’s Athlete of the Year.

Although Clark isn’t part of the Unrivaled League, it still has plenty of star power with names like Angel Reese, Chelsea Gray, Arike Ogunbowale, Jewell Loyd, and Kahleah Copper all taking part.