Caitlin Clark, recently crowned the WNBA Rookie of the Year, has formally declined an invitation to participate in the inaugural season of the Unrivaled league, as confirmed by its president, Alex Bazell. The league, which expanded its roster from 30 to 36 players, reportedly extended a $1 million offer to Clark, but she ultimately opted out. Speculation about her participation had intensified after ESPN reported her decision to pass on the opportunity, and Bazell addressed the matter in The Ringer WNBA Show. He emphasized the league’s desire to remain a destination for elite talent, expressing hope that Clark might reconsider for the following season.
Bazell clarified that negotiations with Clark were conducted in good faith but acknowledged her need for rest after an exhaustive basketball year. While six new roster spots had been added to the league, Bazell refuted claims that the expansion was solely aimed at securing Clark. Instead, he revealed that the additional positions were primarily to accommodate Connecticut Sun forward Alyssa Thomas, who had shifted plans to play domestically rather than overseas. Despite Clark’s absence, Bazell reiterated that she remains welcome in the league whenever she chooses to join.
Clark’s decision reflects a broader trend among WNBA stars prioritizing self-care over extended playing schedules. After concluding her illustrious collegiate career with Iowa in April, she was promptly drafted by the Indiana Fever and embarked on a relentless pro schedule, which spanned from May until the league’s Olympic break in July. This offseason, she has embraced leisure pursuits, including golf, while focusing on recuperation ahead of the Fever’s upcoming campaign. Her choice underscores the physical and mental toll of constant competition.
She is not alone in taking a step back this offseason. Kelsey Plum, another prominent WNBA player, also announced her withdrawal from Unrivaled. In a candid Instagram post, Plum shared her intention to prioritize personal time and expressed gratitude for the league’s understanding. Her statement resonated with fans, highlighting a growing emphasis among athletes on balancing career ambitions with personal well-being. Both players’ decisions underscore a shift in how professional athletes approach offseason commitments.
The inaugural Unrivaled season, set to run from January to March, promises a competitive platform featuring many high-caliber athletes. With the WNBA season resuming in May, the league offers a condensed schedule designed to attract top talent. While Clark and Plum’s absences may shape early impressions, Unrivaled’s expansion and strategic player inclusions signal its determination to carve a niche in the basketball landscape, positioning itself as a formidable complement to existing leagues.