WBNA Golden Check: Caitlin Clark’s $8.1 million Nike deal makes her the #4 most powerful woman in sports — but can she beat Simone Biles’ $25 million empire and take the #2 spot in the WNBA’s rise to fame?

Caitlin Clark’s star just keeps getting brighter. The rookie sensation and WNBA phenomenon has inked an eye-popping $8.1 million endorsement deal with Nike, marking one of the richest sponsorships ever for a female basketball player. The move has officially catapulted her to the #4 spot among the most powerful women in global sports, cementing her status as a new face of athletic influence and commercial dominance.

Clark’s rapid ascent comes during what many are calling the “WNBA Glow-Up Era,” as the league’s popularity surges to new heights with record-breaking attendance, TV ratings, and media coverage. Her dazzling shooting range, fierce competitiveness, and Midwest charm have made her a household name—and a marketing goldmine. Nike’s latest move signals a full-court press to capitalize on her momentum and global fan base.

But the big question remains: Can Caitlin Clark surpass Simone Biles, the world-famous gymnast whose $25 million brand empire has redefined what it means to be a female athlete in charge of her destiny? Biles’ success extends beyond sports, encompassing fashion, fitness, and mental health advocacy—a legacy that Clark is only beginning to build.

Analysts say Clark’s future could be even brighter if she continues her trajectory both on and off the court. With growing media attention, a new generation of fans, and a league hungry for its next superstar, she’s positioned to be not just a basketball icon but a global power player.

If the WNBA continues its billion-dollar rise—and Clark keeps breaking barriers—she may soon be eyeing more than just championship rings. She could be gunning for the crown itself, challenging legends like Simone Biles and Serena Williams in the race to become the most influential woman in modern sports.