Insane: Caitlin Clark is set to receive a “Lionel-Messi-like” offer to play in a 3v3 league as she’s ranked as the 4th most marketable athlete in the world

Elite athletes are magnets for lucrative contract offers, and the newly launched Unrivaled women’s basketball league is reportedly putting together a major proposal to entice Caitlin Clark to join its inaugural season. Sources indicate that this strategy closely resembles the extensive recruitment efforts made by Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami CF in their pursuit of Lionel Messi back in 2023.

The league’s ambitious push to land Clark reflects Inter Miami’s recognition that simple financial compensation isn’t enough for elite talent. When they sought Messi, the club rolled out an extraordinary package valued at $150 million. This included not just a massive salary but also partial ownership stakes and various other financial perks. To sweeten the deal, Apple even agreed to share revenue from the MLS Season Pass with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.

This trend underscores a broader movement in sports where teams are employing unique incentives and partnerships to attract top-tier athletes, setting themselves apart in an increasingly competitive environment. With Clark being one of the most prominent names in women’s basketball, the Unrivaled league is clearly willing to think outside the box to make a splash.

Caitlin Clark set to make the bag

REPORT: Caitlin Clark is expected to receive a “Lionel Messi-like” offer to play in Unrivaled's startup 3v3 league, per @MMcCarthyREV

Messi’s contract includes partial ownership, financial incentives and revenue share of MLS season pass. pic.twitter.com/lDC4gV5P1r

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 23, 2024

Caitlin Clark has made waves recently, being named the fourth-most-marketable athlete in the world by SportsPro in London, just behind Lionel Messi, who ranks fifth. With her skyrocketing popularity and broad appeal, the new Unrivaled women’s basketball league is reportedly crafting a lucrative offer for her, which could exceed $1 million for less than three months of play. This package may also include equity and revenue-sharing options.

Similar to how Messi’s arrival transformed Major League Soccer, Unrivaled hopes to create a “Caitlin Clark Effect” that will drive ticket sales and boost viewership for its TV partner, TNT Sports. The league is banking on her star power to attract major advertisers and elevate its profile in a competitive landscape.

Unrivaled is gearing up to kick off its inaugural season in Miami come January 2025. This exciting 3-on-3 league will span eight weeks, culminating in playoffs that promise high-stakes action.

For Caitlin Clark, the chance to trade the chilly winter of Iowa for the sunny skies of South Florida could be an appealing prospect. Much like Lionel Messi’s situation, the ball is in Clark’s court now. The final decision rests with her, and it could shape the future of both her career and the league itself.

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