3 Reasons Caitlin Clark Joining WNBA's Rival League Seems Unrealistic Despite $2 million Salary Offers

Caitlin Clark is one of the most sought-after athletes across the globe. Now that a new women's basketball league is slated for a 2026 launch, fans are buzzing whether the Indiana Fever superstar will make her presence felt in that startup.

While an increased number of CC highlights would be a delight for hoops junkies, there are a number of reasons to believe that she won't actually suit up for the league codenamed Project B. Despite reports of annual salaries worth $2 million, Clark might not head over to Project B due to three factors in particular.

3 Reasons Caitlin Clark Joining WNBA's Rival League Seems Unrealistic

Caitlin Clark Could Prioritize Rest and Recovery

Indiana Fever v Atlanta Dream - Game Three - Source: Getty

Months ago, Clark had the opportunity to join Unrivaled, the new 3-on-3 league founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. Clark, however, declined the invitation, citing the need for physical and mental rest after feeling the toll of a second consecutive trip to the NCAA finals, as well as her rookie year in the WNBA.

This past season, Clark was hindered by major injuries, including the groin issues that plagued her for a number of weeks. There's good reason to think, then, that Clark will once again be cautious with her offseason next year (assuming, of course, that there won't be a WNBA lockout).

Caitlin Clark Has Been Getting Huge Paydays Elsewhere

2024 A Year In TIME Dinner - Source: Getty

If the reports about Project B are true, the new league gives WNBA players a unique opportunity to significantly increase their earnings. Here's the reality that sets Clark apart from the vast majority of her peers: Her tremendous star power has already brought her a good number of lucrative deals.

Between the NIL income that she earned when she was in college and the various endorsements that she has taken on, it's crystal clear that Clark is financially set. As such, the allure of Project B's contracts might not be as strong for her.

Caitlin Clark Might Opt To Distance Herself From Controversy

Indiana Fever v Seattle Storm - Source: Getty

Though Clark is not immune to online criticism, she has done a remarkable job of maintaining a respectable profile with her behavior on and off the court. Joining Project B, however, might compromise that image.

For quite some time, the league has attracted controversy, particularly because of its alleged ties to Saudi Arabia. Clark could simply choose to play it safe and not get involved at all with a venture that may or may not be receiving Saudi funding.