As the WNBA Draft Approaches, What Lies Ahead for Caitlin Clark?

Caitlin Clark’s college career ended on Sunday with a loss to South Carolina in the national championship game. Despite this, the Iowa star’s popularity is not going away.

“I know what’s next is soon,” she said.

Eight days from now, to be exact.

That’s when Clark will be in New York for the WNBA Draft, where she is expected to be the No. 1 pick by the Indiana Fever. After gaining national prominence during her time in college, there are already signs that she will make a significant impact in the professional league.

What to know about the WNBA Draft

The draft will be held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York at 7:30 p.m. (ET) on April 15. The draft will be aired on ESPN and streamed on Fubo.

Here is the first-round order of the draft:

1. Indiana Fever
2. Los Angeles Sparks
3. Chicago Sky (via Phoenix)
4. Los Angeles Sparks (via Seattle)
5. Dallas Wings (via Chicago)
6. Washington Mystics
7. Minnesota Lynx
8. Chicago Sky (via Atlanta)
9. Dallas Wings
10. Connecticut Sun
11. New York Liberty
12. Atlanta Dream (via Las Vegas)

What kind of impact will Clark make in the WNBA?

On the court, Clark will face challenges to get her shot, but her range and accuracy will still make her a tough guard. She is also known for her passing skills, having set a Division I record of 1,144 assists in college. Her ability to make keen passes can greatly benefit her professional teammates.

In terms of marketing and star power, the WNBA should be prepared for Clark’s impact. The Fever are already seeing an increase in ticket sales, and other teams are making arrangements to accommodate more fans when she plays. Clark’s popularity is expected to draw large crowds.

Despite the narratives, Clark’s endorsement power and potential lucrative deals can offset any potential loss in income from going pro. She is expected to be a top earner both on and off the court.

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As the presumptive No. 1 draft pick, Clark is set to embark on a successful professional career with potential for significant opportunities both on and off the court.

Did Clark have to go pro?

No, Clark had the option to return for an extra season of eligibility due to the NCAA’s pandemic disruption policy, but she decided to move on to the professional level.

Who else will be in the draft?

Aside from Clark, other notable players expected to be early selections in the draft include Kamilla Cardoso from South Carolina, Cameron Brink from Stanford, Rickea Jackson from Tennessee, and Angel Reese from LSU.

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(Photo: Steph Chambers / Getty Images)