Caitlin Clark’s every move has become a headline, and for good reason. The Indiana Fever’s rising star has been a transformative figure in the WNBA, captivating fans and driving viewership to record levels in her rookie season. So, when whispers about her potential participation in the inaugural season of the Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball league began circulating, excitement was palpable.
Unrivaled, set to debut in Miami this January, boasts a roster packed with WNBA superstars. Fans eagerly awaited Clark’s inclusion among the final names announced for the league, hopeful she would bring her dynamic playmaking to the innovative competition. However, Clark stunned supporters on Wednesday when it was revealed she had opted out, choosing to remain focused on her WNBA career instead.
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The decision sparked heated debates online, and few voices were louder-or sharper-than Skip Bayless. The outspoken sportscaster wasted no time sharing his unfiltered opinion, praising Clark’s choice. “Good for Caitlin Clark not playing in this new 3-on-3 league,”Bayless posted on X. “After all the jealousy and resentment she felt last season- all the cheap shots and bullying attempts- she made a late-season run at MVP. SHE’S the reason WNBA popularity exploded last season. She doesn’t need 3-on-3.”
Bayless’ commentary struck a nerve, framing Clark’s absence as a power move. He emphasized how her resilience during her rookie year, overcoming intense scrutiny and physical play, established her as the WNBA’s marquee attraction. In his eyes, participating in Unrivaled would have been a step down for a player who had already become the face of the league.
Star-studded Unrivaled debut faces a Caitlin Clark-sized void
Unrivaled, meanwhile, has drawn considerable star power for its debut season. Founders Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier will suit up alongside league headliners such as Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Arike Ogunbowale. Even Clark’s fierce rival, Angel Reese, has committed to the tournament, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the event.
Interestingly, Clark’s decision leaves her Indiana Fever teammates, Aliyah Boston and Lexie Hull, as two of the players representing the franchise in Unrivaled. The Fever duo joins a roster stacked with talent, but Clark’s absence is undeniably the most significant storyline surrounding the league’s launch.
For fans, the decision may feel bittersweet. On one hand, Clark’s choice solidifies her focus on building her legacy in the WNBA. On the other, it underscores the challenge Unrivaled faces in securing all of the league’s top-tier stars. With its current roster, the league is poised for an exciting debut, but Clark’s absence serves as a reminder of just how influential she has become in such a short time.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Caitlin Clark’s every move will continue to shape the narrative of women’s basketball. Whether on or off the court, her decisions carry weight-and Skip Bayless, for one, believes she’s made the right call.