The WNBA’s offseason is a long one—eight months without competitive league play, leaving many players, including Caitlyn Clark, facing a prolonged gap. For many top athletes, staying active during this period is essential to maintain their edge, and alternative leagues like Unrivaled offer both training and gameplay opportunities. This offseason, all eyes are on whether Clark will join Unrivaled, a rising three-on-three league that could keep her game sharp while also offering a generous paycheck.

Europe is Off the Table—So Why Not Miami?

It’s clear that Clark won’t be heading to Europe to play, but that leaves the door open for a stint in the Unrivaled league. Unlike the grueling schedule of a full European season, Unrivaled’s format—three-on-three on a full basketball court—offers a more relaxed, flexible environment where Clark could hone her skills without overtaxing her body. And with the chance to train and play in Miami alongside close friends like Lexi Hull, Aaliyah Boston, and Kate Martin, it’s easy to see the appeal of a few months in the sunshine.

Playing with the Best

Another big draw for Clark is the chance to play with and against some of her heroes. Many of the league’s stars, like Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Chelsea Gray, will be there too, offering a rare chance to rub shoulders with legends she’s admired since childhood. Despite her popularity, Clark isn’t without rivals and critics in the WNBA, but Unrivaled’s environment promises a more collegial setting. Here, her chance to team up with admired players in a less pressured atmosphere could be both inspiring and energizing.

The Money Question

Financially, Unrivaled offers Clark a tremendous boost compared to her WNBA earnings. With a projected salary of up to $2 million, a season in Unrivaled would far surpass her WNBA salary of about $70,000. This income difference not only provides her with immediate financial security but also positions her for long-term opportunities. Unrivaled could serve as a stepping stone, increasing her visibility and giving her bargaining power when the next WNBA collective bargaining agreement comes up for negotiation.

Navigating Brand Deals and Sponsorships

Although Clark currently holds a multi-million dollar deal with Nike, some question whether this partnership restricts her. By choosing to play in Unrivaled, Clark could increase her market value and potentially secure more lucrative sponsorships down the line. Even if Nike eventually reassesses their deal, Clark would likely have no shortage of other brands eager to work with her. The financial freedom and flexibility that Unrivaled offers could empower Clark to secure future partnerships that better align with her long-term goals.

Unrivaled: A Sustainable Alternative?

Unrivaled isn’t just a financial opportunity for Clark; it represents a unique model for women’s basketball that emphasizes both player well-being and visibility. A new league focused on developing player skills and providing a high level of support, Unrivaled has the potential to become a valuable complement to the WNBA. For young stars like Clark and Angel Reese, the league could be a chance to elevate their profiles and establish themselves as ambassadors for women’s basketball. And, by boosting player compensation and popularity, Unrivaled could create much-needed leverage to help improve conditions and salaries in the WNBA itself.

Ultimately, with both her career and the sport of women’s basketball in mind, the question seems to be not if but when Clark will make her Unrivaled debut.