Ice Cube’s BIG3 league made headlines by offering Caitlin Clark a groundbreaking contract, highlighting a new era beyond the WNBA. This decision sparked wider debates about opportunity and visibility in the sport.
Two rising stars, Clark and Angel Reese, have dominated headlines, each forging unique paths in their professional careers. Their journeys reflect broader themes of marketability, influence and evolving dynamics in women’s sports.
As leagues and sponsors navigate these changes, the choices made regarding these two players reveal the complex interplay between talent, branding and business shaping the future of women’s basketball.
Why did Ice Cube offer Caitlin Clark $5 million but not Angel Reese?
When Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese entered the professional basketball scene, BIG3 founder Ice Cube made a bold move by offering Clark a $5 million contract to become the first female player in the league. Reese, however, was not given a similar offer despite her impressive credentials.
Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky, Ice Cube in 2017 and Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever. (Source: Michael Hickey/Getty Images — Al Bello/Getty Images — Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
He explained that the decision largely came down to the perspectives of corporate sponsors, who believed Clark would bring a greater impact and visibility to the BIG3. According to him, sponsors weren’t as confident about the same effect from Reese, which influenced the league’s investment choices.
“I don’t think we can make that same offer because it won’t have the same impact on the league,” the hip-hop legend told TMZ Sports in a weekend conversation.
Though Clark declined the BIG3 offer to join the WNBA as the top draft pick for the Indiana Fever, both athletes have since made significant marks. Reese was drafted seventh by the Chicago Sky and has also developed a strong brand, securing major endorsements and launching her own signature shoe with Reebok.
