Caitlin Clark has quickly become the face of the WNBA and one of the league’s biggest ambassadors. Her rise began with a historic college career, followed by becoming the No. 1 pick of the Indiana Fever, where she immediately transformed the franchise and the league’s visibility.
Even in just her second season, Clark’s impact on attendance, ratings, and overall interest in women’s basketball has been impossible to ignore. She has helped usher the WNBA into a new era of mainstream attention, bringing millions of new fans into the sport and elevating the profile of both her team and the league as a whole. Her influence continues to be one of the main driving forces behind the WNBA’s rapid growth.
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However, as the WNBA continues to expand, new competing leagues have also begun to generate interest, including Project B, a global women’s basketball league set to launch in fall 2026.
Indiana Fever guards Caitlin Clark (22) and Sophie Cunningham (8).Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The league has already secured commitments from several WNBA players seeking new opportunities outside the traditional offseason structure. One of those players is Clark’s teammate Sophie Cunningham, who recently announced her commitment to Project B ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.
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In a recent episode of her “Show Me Something” podcast, Cunningham revealed that she attempted to recruit Caitlin Clark to join her in Project B, but her effort was quickly shut down.
“I tried to tell her to, like, play in this one, and she was like, ‘no,’” Cunningham said, making it clear Clark had no interest in participating.
It remains unclear why Clark turned the offer down, but her decision could be connected to her recovery process.
Clark suffered a season-ending groin injury in 2025 that limited her to just 13 games, and she also turned down participation in Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 offseason league. Her focus appears to be on staying healthy and preparing for her full WNBA return rather than splitting time between new leagues.
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Clark will, however, be active with Team USA, as she has been confirmed for the national team’s training camp roster.
Related: Caitlin Clark Reacts to Nelly Korda’s Engagement Announcement
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.