Caitlin Clark signs 8-figure signature sneaker deal; yet, no Black WNBA players have signature shoes

Caitlin Clark is in talks to ink a deal with Nike for a signature shoe and it’s sparked a discussion about the lack of Black women in the WNBA who have received similar opportunities. While the NBA and WNBA share similar player demographic statistics, with both leagues having a majority of Black players, the distribution of signature sneakers tells a different story. In the NBA, signature sneakers are predominantly worn by Black athletes, reflecting the racial makeup of the league and the popularity of its stars. The NBA is 71.8% Black and 17.4% White. On the other hand, the WNBA is 70% Black and 18.9% White.& However, the WNBA, despite having a comparable demographic composition, lacks representation of Black women in the realm of signature footwear. According to& The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the deal between Caitlin Clark and Nike will secure her a substantial sum close to $20 million, trumping her WNBA rookie contract, which stands at $338,056 over four years.& As a rookie player, she is set to make $76,535 per year. Clark, like many other WNBA players, will expectedly make the bulk of her earnings through brand endorsements and deals.& Currently, the WNBA boasts four White players out...