Why Caitlin and Paige will leave for the WNBA

[@jackmatheson4671]

Patiently awaiting for your take on the Alissa Pili performance from Sunday. 😂

[@back2sports]

In 6 hrs u will get it!

[@jackmatheson4671]

Thank you! @@back2sports

[@Calidastas]

Any team with a chance to pick Clark has to pick her. She sells out stadiums.

[@alanlee3236]

...in college. The W is a different world. I hope she continues to sell them out, but the W doesn't have the following that the NCAA has.

[@laurenphammy]

@@alanlee3236This is true, but I think that may change in the near future! I feel like now, women’s sports is changing so much and ncaa wbb players don’t only gain fans but they also gain loyalty. People will continue to follow these girls- at least I know I will 🤗 much love!🫶

[@tastic1748]

They don't give out Championship Trophies for sold out Games.

[@Calidastas]

@@tastic1748 no but they do give out bags of cash and you can buy more with that than you can with trophies.

[@c.noelle5482]

I think Paige will stay bc UConn has different expectations. She won Player of the Year as a freshman and while she has made it to a championship game, I think she wants to win as a Huskie so (in her mind) she can be solidified as one of the great UConn college basketball players. She is a beast and to me is already a super star, but athletes hold themselves to higher standards. Clark took Iowa to their first championship game and reached 3000 pts so her legacy is already solidified in my opinion. Depending on the school you play for, expectations determine the outcome of your legacy. UConn is UConn the expectation is championships every year. But Iowa’s expectations post-Clark is Elite 8. Obviously every program has an expectation of winning the championship game but realistically if your school has never won it then ppl aren’t going to hold you to it if you have never won it. But Clark as a scorer, passer, and facilitator is what her legacy will be. So I think Clark is the most satisfied btwn her and Paige but obviously both would like to win a title.

[@alanlee3236]

Excellent summation

[@steviekinzey2304]

100% agree

[@matthewreese3907]

I definitely believe Caitlin is going to the pros. I think the fact she will be paired with a young team including Aliyah Boston and Nalyssa Smith while being close to home is just too much to pass on. However, unless UConn wins the championship this year and even if they do I still think Paige is staying. While like you, I think LA would pick her I don't think it is super clear if they would pick her or Cameron Brink. If I was Paige, I would wait as long as possible to make my decision and if for some reason Brink stays at Stanford then I would declare to go but I doubt she will. Plus then she can maybe have a fully healthy season with a fully healthy Azzi.

[@jjohnson3203]

Great take @mattewreese3907. I think Brink is going because she's had a full college career (unlike Paige) and has a chip...so that pressure is off even though she'd love another one this year.

[@matthewreese3907]

@@jjohnson3203 I agree with you. She had a great college career and there isn't really anything that she is missing.

[@written12]

@@jjohnson3203Cameron has had a full college career, including a Natty. I think you’re right. Caitlin has had an making career, 4 years in college( the full time) and how could she pass up playing in the Midwest and with the Bostonian

[@mplou699]

UConn is NOT going to win the 2024 National Championship, even if PB scores 40 points a game.

[@alanlee3236]

@@mplou699 LOL probably not UNLESS she scores 40 a game. If Paige scored 30 a game, they'd win it all. Confidence breeds confidence. If she played that well, she'd bring the others with her. Unfortunately, she hasn't figures it out that she needs to score a bunch every game to unleash others.

[@johnraymond9170]

There would always be an asterisk next those stats because of a fifth year. I think Caitlin, Kate and Gabbie should make their senior push this season with this team, go out together. One last crown to take…go get it!

[@jjohnson3203]

Good point about having 5 years worth of stats as opposed to 4 yrs.

[@DemiB5030]

But they be hardly the first players to stay five years though

[@larrysmith8926]

Think this should be the same for most ncaa marks. Teams play more games in a season then they did in the 70’s. Also look at Kareem he was unable to play his Freshman year so he played a lot fewer games then players later

[@krl7009]

I think Caitlin leaves. This is a perfect situation for her. And I know she’s tired of doing everything for Iowa with no help

[@raylouison7571]

Taking a pay cut is a perfect situation, yeah right.

[@krl7009]

You do not have to agree, but she will still have her endorsements they would be crazy to drop her. She is Caitlin Clark. I believe she will make more bc of who she is and her fan base. You will see. She is coming out. @@raylouison7571

[@womxncentrism]

⁠brand deals do not end at graduation

[@DemiB5030]

When will this ignorance stop? There will be no pay cut. She’ll actually get a salary plus all the deals she has now and more. People need to know their facts before they speak.

[@raylouison7571]

@krl7009 @@DemiB5030 I'll guarantee you one thing, Iowa Hawkeyes fly charter, if she is in WNBA she fly commercial like the rest of us normal folk.

[@giftcardbill]

WOW! Really good take. Lots of info. Appreciate your hard work. I've had similar thoughts on Paige but have no solid prognostication. On Caitlin, now that you've brought all of her logistics to the fore, family, boyfriend, his job etc, it looks like a good bet she could leave. But like Paige, what Caitlin does is tough to predict but easier to see with the info you gave. Good on ya brudda.

[@back2sports]

Thanks for that. Very nice

[@calvinh.4682]

I think Caitlin Clark leaves this year and will Bueckers will leave this year too.

[@marcusb.3038]

Great take! Too much of an itch not to go! Paige is probably sick and tired of carrying UConn! As regards Caitlin, she’s gotta go! Her boyfriend is set up as a coach at the pacers, she get’s to play alongside Aliyah Boston the ROTY this past wnba season, also alongside a team that are banging on the door of post season play! (Even though my wnba team is Minnesota Lynx heh heh)

[@mrmojorisin8752]

Many of you folks don’t understand how Paige thinks and operates. She does not care about the money angle. She will do what she thinks is best for everyone: her school, her coach, her teammates, her best friend, her new WNBA team. A great deal will depend on how this year plays out, and how next year appears to be shaping up at UConn. I think she leaves only if she’s convinced she can’t be a difference maker next year at UConn. If UConn looks really promising, she stays. She’s the type of person who understands that once you leave college, you can never get that back. Somehow I’m reminded of the football star Barry Sanders. It made no sense at all for Barry to return to college after he’d won the Heisman Trophy and proven himself to be a generational talent. But he nevertheless announced that he was returning to school. Barry’s father went ballistic and basically forced his son to reverse course and to go pro. Barry later wrote retrospectively, in his autobiography, “I’ll always love my father, but I’ll never forgive him for making me lose my last year in college.” This is how special people think, and Paige is special.

[@written12]

Your affection and respect for Paige is genuine. A lot of us share it.

[@johnklein6040]

Paige will be back next year. her college experience will not be complete without playing next year. Money is not a deciding factor in her decision.

[@scottballantyne2904]

Nobody knows what Paige will do, but Paige. Let it play out. Stop speculating.

[@jjohnson3203]

Jordan and Shaq were special, but left with a year of eligibility (along w/ many other players). Lebron and Kobe were special and skipped college altogether. If Paige wants to come back next year, good on her. But, help me understand how wanting to stay vs leaving early equates to being special or thinking special? If Clark and Brink leave after this season, are they not special?

[@mplou699]

Oh yes, PB can go back to UConn, she can take Geno's place as coach.

[@walterbrob]

Clark is almost a deity in Iowa and she makes plenty of money with NIL. It will be like Lebron taking his talents to Miami if they play it right. Hundreds of thousands of young girls would be glued to seats watching her decision.

[@tastic1748]

Y'all were critical of Lebron for doing that. Now Flopping Caitlin can do it and it's ok. Hypocrites

[@larrypesses1389]

I don't believe that it's a money issue for either. Caitlin leaving for the Fever is as close to a sure thing as there is these days. It's a perfect scenario for her and Indiana. What can you say, the stars have aligned and I'm certain she knows it. Paige will stay at Uconn. She'll want another year with Azzi and a chance at an NC. There's a chance they win this year but they will need the luck of the draw and their freshman to stay on the same trajectory they appear to be on now. In any event UConn will be loaded next year and Paige at the end of the day is hunting a NC.

[@mplou699]

Hunt all you want, PB will never see a National Championship at UConn.

[@alanlee3236]

@@mplou699 Gosh, thanks for letting us know. Now we can all stop watching the Huskies since they won't win while Paige is here. Whew. Can you tell what stock I should invest in too?

[@futurehofer1564]

she already carried them to the final game, I dont see why she couldnt do it again @@mplou699

[@mplou699]

So sorry, I don't do stocks.@@alanlee3236

[@back2sports]

Kodak

[@politeia1999]

Paige has another reason to stay which you neglected: her bestie, Azzi, might also stay another year. This could be their last obvious opportunity to play together on the same team for an entire season. There's all the other risks you mention, and they make sense. So, just add this one into the mix. I also wonder about the attraction of LA for Paige. She's a small market kid, went from Minnesota to Storrs, and was the big news in each little outpost. In LA, she might not shine so brightly among the Hollywood lights. Is there a team they can put around her that would make sense for her. If she'd have to carry a mediocre team on her shoulders, that might not interest her. She's likely to have her fill of that this season.

[@jjohnson3203]

While Paige is a midwestern kid, I think she has the swag to make it in a big market. I see the way she dances and even how she interacts in situations like the Overtime hoops games: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHnNnppsocRqbLs It's tougher to envision Caitlin in this type of situation.

[@arthur-ri4zo]

Paige has 2 years left. Don't forget the Covid year.

[@biapizeta]

can you make a video about how the expansion draft will work?

[@larrycarter1875]

Cameron Brink is a better option at 2, in my opinion. I think Clark declares btw

[@abe-haumara]

The sad thing is, the coaches at Iowa didnt even try to bring in new talent to help Caitlin win the championship this year. Their bench is not deep enough and the rest of the starting 5 lack the IQ she has to compete at the highest level. They are very good, but we all know superstars have a bit of x-factor that they turn on when those buckets are not falling and the game is not going their way. She has that, the rest of the team doesn't. 😢 She Should leave but if they can bring in a high IQ point guard who can control the pace, free up shooters in man situations ,shoot 70% from the field and add a long skilled center who can block, get those offensive n defensive rebounds,they will win the championship.

[@pattibond2342]

I think Iowa needs to bring in some talented height, as well! I hope Clark stays, to set the records higher, and give Bruder more wins! Clark has a Loyal following! Yep, the coaches/recruiters should have been Way more aggressive.

[@marceybull]

Yes! ... I posted this exact thing about not getting her better back up for her goal of state championship for Iowa!

[@kurtjohnson4816]

The Hawkeyes had one roster spot open. They knew they needed a paint player, so they went hard after both Morrow and Betts. They just didn't choose Iowa. That's about it, because there really weren't any other quality bigs in the portal. Coach Bluder said they didn't have the $$ to compete with LSU and UCLA.

[@kurtjohnson4816]

@@pattibond2342 They have a nice 6'4" post coming in next year, Ava Heiden, the #2 post in her class.

[@alanlee3236]

Not true. Who told you they didn't try? They operate at a disadvantage, but that doesn't mean they didn't try.

[@RichardIILionheart]

The only reason for Caitlin to stay for a fifth season at Iowa would be to put the career scoring record so far out of reach that it would not be broken in her lifetime. I would not mind seeing that happen, but I doubt it will.

[@marceybull]

And money, and to bring the state a championship -- altho Iowa isn't using the portal enough to get her over that goal post.

[@RichardIILionheart]

@@marceybull A national title as always been a long shot. (Of course, long shots are Caitlin’s speciality.) When people complain that Iowa did not use the transfer portal, they often do not understand (first) that Iowa had only one roster spot available and (second) that the top transfers after last season seemed already to have decided where they wanted to go. My understanding is that Iowa tried pretty hard to recruit a couple of players, but when they chose elsewhere, the coaches decided no one left in the portal was better or more promising than the players already on their roster.

[@marceybull]

@@RichardIILionheart - I guess I didn't hear about who they tried to pull thru portal ... Interesting to hear.

[@RichardIILionheart]

@@marceybull I don’t have it as fact, but there was talk about Iowa going after Morrow, who ended up at LSU. There was also some talk about Donarski, who ended up at North Carolina. I do not know how much of a long shot either was; maybe both were in reality no shots.

[@kurtjohnson4816]

@@RichardIILionheart The wanted a big, so they pursued Morrow and Betts.

[@renzdealexandria1189]

Clark is also a crowd-drawer

[@JayGHDTTP]

Caitlin is declaring for the WNBA Draft. Everything has simply lined up for her. Iowa won't win a national championship but she has maxed out her college career. There's really nothing else for her to do. I believe that Paige will remain at UConn. She came to UConn to win a national championship. Too many people underestimate her pursuit of greatness. Top players that come to UConn and don't win championships are simply forgotten. That's just the truth. Paige isn't going out like that. She hasn't truly had a fair shot at doing so as a healthy player or with a fully healthy team. She stays one more year to finally play with Azzi and fully healthy team. Also, due to her own injuries, Paige has basically missed two full years of collegiate basketball. Another year will strengthen her game more for the W. I'd argue she's not ready right now because of the time she's missed.

[@jacobwatson1818]

That Gatorade deal does bring up some questions. I think Caitlin might return. She is growing womens college basketball and I think she cares about that.

[@sp123]

​@@jacobwatson1818Maybe Gatorade is paying her to declare in 2023? 🤔

[@mwtroupe]

So, no other player goes to college to win a national championship, they all do. Yes, many teams have no chance, but that's why they play.

[@JayGHDTTP]

@@mwtroupe No they DONT. You read what I said. Do you think players that go to schools like DePaul, Ole Miss, Clemson etc really think they are going to compete for a National Championship??? 😆

[@DirectionlessStudent]

CC definitely goes. Paige -- not so sure there. I don't think even Paige knows yet.

[@fingerpickingood1900]

I think now she goes because Indiana is close to home and playing with Boston. If she does decide to stay, she will break every scoring and assist record that will never be broken. I know this doesn't really matter to her but.....I also think that both wil not go this year for sure. It's all on Caitlin. If she declares, paige stays and vice versa.

[@mwtroupe]

She will break every scoring record this year.

[@fingerpickingood1900]

@@mwtroupe maybe

[@fingerpickingood1900]

@yestyle you're kidding right?

[@arthur-ri4zo]

Leave for the WNBA ? Why should she. She's making more in NIL money than most WNBA'ers. Furthermore, if you're that so sure of yourself. What is next Friday's lottery # ?

[@arthur-ri4zo]

Did you hear the good news. Paige stated that she is returning to UCONN. Made the decision on senior day after the game.

[@losangelesnative1586]

Who are your top 3 picks? Can you make a video about it?! That would be amazing

[@giftcardbill]

I just had a thought, pffft. Is it possible, Paige's NIL sponsors will sweeten the deal considerably to keep Paige in college because it will be better for the NIL money wise?

[@karonmoore6769]

LA needs a solid center too. Cardoza would seem like a very good selection too. Especially with Paige’s injury history, being able to play injury free for 2 years would be good for her AND UConn.

[@davemanmartin]

They drafted Monica Czinano last year then dropped her. I don’t know a lot about the WNBA, but that doesn’t sound smart to me

[@dougf9900]

Would Caitlin and Paige leaving even be a bad thing for Iowa and Uconn? They both play such an outsized role on their teams that the rest of the team becomes an afterthought. Both end up having to pretend to run the offense, when really the team is just waiting on them to take the shot. How is it good to be so over reliant on one player night after night?

[@jjohnson3203]

@dougf9900- Great points. Caitlin is actually showing a good amount of frustration w/ her teammates already this year. It's going to be a heavy burden for her (and Paige) this entire season carrying that load. Among all the other reasons mentioned, does she really want to carry all of the burden and expectation again next year (& without Kate and Gabby too)? And, how much more can she improve her game at the college level?

[@lindsaymathews5127]

Hello! Diana Taurasi had to win a National Championship with players that were good, but not great and dependable. She and Sue Bird carried that team. So? Think about it, has anyone had a team with at least 5 players like Paige? Like Diana? Like Clark? It doesn't work that way. I live in CT and I've been a UConn fan for decades. From what I've seen, we've had our great players one or two like Briana, Maya, etc., who had to "carry" the team. We have 11 National Championships. We're #1 until some other team wins 11 National Championships. Now, What team would that be? IOWA??? @@jjohnson3203

[@DemiB5030]

I don’t know about UConn, but some of the kids on Iowa make themselves after that. They can initiate the offense too, but don’t. Only Martin, Davis & Sidney do. So no Iowa won’t be better

[@oldchevytruck4340]

My thought is that Clark will leave for the WNBA, Iowa does't seem to want to spend the NIL money to put the players around Caitlin to help the team compete for a national championship. The Iowa NIL collective's money goes to the schools football team to make there offence slightly less crappy. With the pipe dream of the football team of competing for a national championship.

[@larrycarter1875]

Caitlin’s endorsements will follow her wherever she goes. Now the travel conditions… that’s a whole other issue

[@jadeshand2990]

Go, Caitlyn. You’ll never find a better situation.

[@back2sports]

100% agree. It is time. The Fever is a perfect location and set up for her.

[@kentuckylucky5762]

Buecker stays at uconn..i think she wants a chance at a nat. title..plus if she stays healthy another year she might draft higher....Clark its a wild card.. Indiana would be her choice..not far from iowa, boyfriend there, and Boston would be a good team...but she really wants that national title for Iowa and set records..plus her nil deals are huge now. Hmm

[@TheDisruptiveOne]

UConn is a complete rebuild next year. The national title thing is unrealistic. Paige will go. She’s had enough of Geno and of Storrs.

[@nita723]

@@TheDisruptiveOneI agree but I can see Paige hitting the portal as an option and shocking everybody. HVL did it but Paige doing it would be huge news.

[@jjohnson3203]

Clark of course wants a chip, but she's already elevated Iowa above its historical standing in college hoops. And there'd be no guarantee that Iowa would win the chip next year with her continuing to carry such a heavy load. There's more pressure to win a chip at blue bloods like UConn, TN, South Carolina. NIL isn't a big factor for either player staying or going. NIL simply is the name of a program that allows collegiate players to get endorsements. None of their sponsors will drop either player if they go pro (Nike, State Farm, Gatorade, etc). In fact they might increase..I can see Clark and Paige w/ signature shoes like Sabrina (great shoes btw!)

[@matthewreese3907]

@@TheDisruptiveOne If UConn goes into the portal to get an experienced forward or they can get #1 recruit Sarah Strong then I do not think next year will be a "rebuilding year."

[@bbwng54]

Agree that UConn is unlikely to win the championship next year, because 1) she doesn't want to risk another unexpected injury; 2) the competition will still be very tough, and 3) Aaliyah is leaving, leaving a big hole in the bigs.

[@Consultant22]

If its not a significant income difference, she will go pro. However, if she's making hundreds of thousands more in college she will stay. I do think Indiana seems like an ideal personal situation for Clark.

[@jadeshand2990]

She just signed with State Farm and Gatorade. She’ll carry those with her if she goes to WNBA. I think she’ll go to step into Sue Bird’s shoes. It’s really the perfect setup for her and I’m drooling at the thought of her and Boston as teammates. Go, Caitlyn, go!

[@jamerson4051]

Btw, lower the rim to 9 ft. Womens game has evolved but the dunks fill the seats. Shooters would adapt and it would make the game more appealing.

[@jamerson4051]

Say it's sexist, it's not, if so why do the women play with a smaller ball? Hands are smaller. So are their bodies, lower it and attract male fans to put eyes on the talent!

[@back2sports]

No IMO raise the men hoop to 12 feet to make it a better game.

[@davidt62]

At the beginning of the season, I did not believe that Paige or Caitlin would stay with their respective teams. Paige was scheduled to play and has played in Minnesota. Connecticut does this when the player has their final season. As for Caitlin she has accomplished everything she can in college and should like to go because they are more opportunities financially for her outside of college. You are correct in this. Paige’s longevity has been impacted by her injuries. She cannot afford to return and not get a shot at the pros. This is our last season to see them create magic in college.

[@mplou699]

YOU ARE CORRECT!

[@futurehofer1564]

Paige could lose a leg, she would still have a shot at the pros lol

[@mplou699]

Be real, that's a sad point to make. @@futurehofer1564

[@mwtroupe]

Clark didn't win the national championship last year, she hasn't accomplished everything yet.

[@paulsamora1348]

Paige is not going anywhere, Azzi has already said she is coming back prior to her injury and those two are determined to have 1 healthy year together. UConn good actually have a few others sticking around also for one more shot. Would not shock me if Edwards is the only one that leaves. That would be extremely interesting if all UConn players eligible for a COVID year decide to stick around, what will this year's freshman class do if that happens.?

[@usveteran9893]

It really would be interesting if all the players that could stay ended up staying. This would really make things more difficult for the following year's playing time. I could actually see a reversal for some. Meaning, that one that is starting this year could go to the bench and allow one of the Freshies [now a sophomore] to start in her place. In my opinion for PB to stay just to play a full season with AF is crazy. You are telling me that PB would want to stay and play with another player that is inconsistent, that doesn't sound like PB is playing it smart.

[@wcshent]

I love the back and forth on this, but here is my take, these 2 women are friends and I think they will call each other and discuss about who will go first and that way each woman can be a first overall pick. What is wrong with that? Either Clark stays in college and that value Paige to #1 and if Clark goes and Paige stays then she will be #1 the following year. This is how I see it playing out. But that’s only my 2 cents and I think this is the first time ever that you actually have 2 legit #1 picks, sure it’s happened in other sports but nothing like now with the choices they have. Nothing against Clark at all I love her she is awesome, but I want Paige to go #1:) GOOOOO Paige!!

[@MrLarryLessor]

They are friendly.. And yes they have a friendship maybe. But I doubt that relationship will result in them calling each other to make plans as to when they enter the draft - Paige is staying if UCONN doesn't win this year's Natty - and they don't even look like a FInal Four team right now. I doubt Paige wants to leave Uconn with a legacy of Zero championships. Caitlin is likely leaving for multiple reasons - So I don't really quite see this as a pressing debate of "Who goes first" I just doubt Paig and Caitlin will be in the same draft class.

[@JEFFREYWILLIAMS-js6uf]

Doesn’t the San Francisco expansion team automatically get the first pick in the 2025 draft?

[@chrislawson501]

No

[@wcshent]

I believe just like other lotrrry systems they get a percentage to get pulled. So who knows!

[@jjohnson3203]

Great question @jeffreywilliams-js6uf

[@GavinGilgen-z7h]

They better try to get paid.The WNBA may be done unless the NBA keeps giving them money

[@DemiB5030]

Not happening. Don’t let Facts get in the way of your hateful ignorance though.

[@lindsaymathews5127]

I am a CT fan and I live CT following the team since 1995. My impression is that Paige will stay another year in order to win a National Title with Azzi. I would think, for her, staying in college for one more year is more profitable because the WNBA's salary is not the same as the men. Will there be NIL agreements for the pros? Doubt it. They could do commercials though. On the men's team UCONN lost some really great players and Clingan their tallest player is already rich with all kinds of offers from almost everywhere. He's a great guy too...!

[@back2sports]

Maybe. TBD. I think LA is too good to pass up but we will see what happens after the tournament.

[@mwtroupe]

NIL is just another name for an endorsement contract, whatever deals the players sign up for will follow into the WNBA. These contracts have nothing to do to where they are playing, just that they are.

[@addeigloriam4844]

If I’m picking second in the draft, I hope the first team takes Clark because I think Paige’s game is better. It is more complete.

[@Etalicus]

The WNBA needs Clark .Clark doesn't need the WNBA yet

[@back2sports]

no she does not need WNBA now - but she will be going to the WNBA this or next year - one way or another. would she rather go now and play for the fever and where her BF works and coaches the pacers or back to school for another year and maybe wind up in Seattle. that is the question to be answered

[@johnsteward132]

Paige already said she is staying at UCONN

[@DENNISALLEN-lg6lg]

BOTH OF THEM SHOULD PLAY OUT THEIR ELGIBILITY YEARS. MORE DOUGH THAN WNBA ROOKIE MONEY. HAVE AS MUCH FUN STAYING IN COLLEGE. GO DUCKS.

[@marceybull]

Caitlin doesn't get enough support from Iowa despite her dedication -- Iowa should have used her name (while they still got her) to lure top players thru the portal who might otherwise not be interested in the plains state of Iowa -- altho Iowa City is actually super awesome/interesting. I think she needs to jump the portal to a competitive team and keep earning NIL money next year before going pro ... There's really no incentive to go pro before you need to due to poor money relatively speaking.

[@bobboyoop1141]

They really didn't have a lot scholarship room once GM and KM came back for 5ths plus the scholarship that classy Bluder honored for Ava. Then there's the whole "academic standards" thing.... Many of the potential portal players excluding HVL couldn't get IN to Iowa much less maintain a "Bluder-acceptible" GPA! I've looked at rosters from some of the other teams from last year and very few mentions of anything academic in bios, lots of "communications" majors, etc.

[@marceybull]

@@bobboyoop1141 - Good point. I do respect any academics accountability -- which may hurt Iowa recruit-wise more than ever over the years with the portal and therefore academics being less (sadly) of an emphasis/expectation ... I know Angel Reese struggled with her grades even before she hit jackpot NIL number$ ... I wonder if that's why she didn't play those few weeks? I have to say for Angel tho, her grades (and prehaps even her basketball skills this year) may not matter due to her celebrity status. That almost-degree in Communications may be enough at this point for her.

[@kurtjohnson4816]

What makes all you people think that Iowa didn't try to get some help through the portal? They tried hard to get Morrow and Betts, and they only had one roster spot open.

[@marceybull]

@@kurtjohnson4816 - There are many others besides those super top players -- like amazing onces but not quite THAT tier hype-wise ... But I didn't know about Morrow so it makes me feel better that Iowa at least tried.

[@alanlee3236]

Excellent points!@@bobboyoop1141

[@jdneely9939]

Clark has said numerous times she may come back. It's legit 50/50 she's stays or goes. She's making WAY more money in college then what the WNBA could ever give her, another year at Iowa could make her a multi millionaire n way more marketing exposure the what WNBA EVER COULD. Not to mention she literally bleeds black n gold, not saying she'll stay but money has a way of convincing people to do things

[@fingerpickingood1900]

You are wrong about the comparison. You are probably too young to remember or knew this but the NBA was in big trouble. Teams were moving to different cities and the tv money was not good. The comparison of Caitlin/Bueckers should be Bird/Magic. They essentially saved the league in the 80’s. The main contrast is Clark/Bueckers will make the league legitimate.

[@back2sports]

Don't recall comparing them in the video. But don't think it is Bird v magic. As a lot of dynamic Bird / Magic was the black white thing. I think Clark is wnba MJ or Curry the most exciting woman scorer ever. For Bird / Magic 2.0 the wnba need Angel Reese to develop and outside shot.

[@bobsmith1484]

Clark won't take a pay cut if he goes pro. All the companies she has and NIL deal with stay with her when she goes pro. In fact she could do commercials and make even more. Candice Parker makes $6 million in endorsements. Her and Boston are great friends and would be a tremendous combination. Plus her boyfriend is a coach for the Indiana Pacers.

[@back2sports]

I agree she won't take a pay cut. But as well it won't be like on the mens side where they to go pro to make more money. Basically a bump in salary 85k. But will know that she will be close to home Iowa and with her BF. Versus a year later where she could wind up in Seattle. She will do what she wants to do but IMO suspect she will think it is time to move on. That is what I was trying to say in Video. thx

[@back2sports]

as well, what team did CP play for? Yep being the star of sparks did not hurt. and the went to Chicago which is a good market as well. Hence why i think BP will go after the season as well.

[@willinnewhaven3285]

Except for one thing, If Clark went, I think Paige will stay, even if they win a championship. Fear of injury might make a big difference,. That's got to be on her mind. On the other tentacle, NIL means that players don't have the huge incentive to start making some money.

[@back2sports]

Agree with that but eventually will have to go to WNBA and some of it depends on how important the market they go to is to them. I think the chance of LA for will be too attractive to pass up versus winding up in Seattle. BTW don't mind Seattle and know it worked for Bird but obviously more opportunities and exposure in LA.

[@phillipgarcia2809]

No way Page stays with L.A. geeting 2ed pick she will make so much money in endorsements word is sparks are in Love with her.she is coming out

[@back2sports]

My feeling as well. We are either smart or will be laughed at in April

[@michaellawson7927]

Here we are,, two of the best women's basketball players that haven't won a ring. I thought on this is that they both stay. Paige has a better chance injured or not to get to that championship game. There going to be certain surprised pieces on next year's time. Cardozo and Hailey will probably be one and two if Paige and Caitlin don't come out.

[@back2sports]

I don't know much but one thing I do know is that no chance that HVL is the number 2 pick in the WNBA draft. If i am wrong, i will make a video and dedicate it to you and how smart you are and what an idiot i am.

[@larryobrien2694]

leaves early? as "when" is early? not a fan of WNBA

[@back2sports]

these players have been granted an extra year of college eligiblity if they want it due to covid. Clark could go back to Iowa for a 5th year. other thing is a players can declare for draft if turn 22 during the WNBA draft year. Paige turned 22 yrs old in Oct 2023. she she was eligible for draft in 2023. However she can return in 2024 to UConn as had a red shirt year due to injury. she has not said if she is return for college 2024-25 season or if will go to WNBA in 2024. TBD. i think she goes pro so can play in LA but i might look like a clown in 4 months time. TBD.

[@JinJer-np7rf]

I think she will declare and if I’m LA I’m drafting cam brink not Paige ….i would of loved LA to get number one pick to draft Clark

[@marcusb.3038]

I think Paige had enough of college……she’s out! She’s been to too many wnba games as a visitor!

[@lindsaymathews5127]

I wouldn't bet on that.

[@emilymortiboy3526]

I think clark leaves for indiana, paige stays and LA takes Brink

[@wessey1000]

You also forget, to mention the new expansion team! If Paige stays another year, she could go to the new team in San Francisco!

[@back2sports]

Don't think that is likely and here is why - In previous years with wnba expansion - the team has been given a pick right after lottery teams. They are not gifted the top pick or get chance in lottery. So GS would likely be in lottery in 2026 not 25. In 2025 likely look at 5th pick but this has yet to be confirmed. Cheers

[@StoryGordon]

Many believe Paige will stay at UConn another year to play with Azzi, Also, just as all top high school players don't do well in college, not all top college players do well in the WNBA.

[@ronnievarnell6545]

I don't think she is leaving Iowa, but that last point about the NY Liberty, Ummm🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@sokkhemourn9105]

Both should go.. right time and spots..

[@robertkeller5930]

Caitlyn is a senior who started after the extra year of eligibility due to covid. Of course she’s leaving.

[@mwtroupe]

um, no she can come back next year.

[@mplou699]

LA's Coach Curt Miller will choose Cameron Brink not PB. He's got an outstanding PG in Canada and needs a BIG because NO's sister, China O is always out due to injury. He does not need another injury prone player like PB.

[@DemiB5030]

Who is China?

[@mplou699]

Sorry, Chiney Ogwumike@@DemiB5030

[@InTheLab3d]

Thats why shes pushing so hard to break plums record THIS year vs a 5th year... She knows there would be a big ole * next to it. She will beat it in about 5 games (or more) less than plum. If they get to the sweet 16, fairly likely pistols record goes down too. Her legacy matters to her. With that record secure, shes got nothing left to stay for. Plus she graduates kate, gabby, molly... The only started to return would be hannah stuelke. Next year would be a bit of a step back (i think).. I dont want her to leave, but I think its fairly likely.

[@mikestud50]

I believe Caitlin stays. She is a hometown girl and plays in front of Packed houses everywhere. She can tell the WNBA where she wants to play. Let them work out the details.

[@mdlcasi2000]

Why would they leave early to a loosing league when they are making money right now w amazing coverage in huge arenas... Vs gymnasium they would be playing at?

[@back2sports]

B/C they have to leave eventually and might rather the location on offer next year Indiana and LA versus what might be on offer in the future. That is why

[@chrislawson501]

Caitlin is 1000 percent leaving .. Connor posted a pic of her next to Boston with a Fever jersey on and Caitlin herself liked the Indy stars post about winning there lottery .. also she’s been liking a lot of Indiana players and pacers stuff for a long while .. she’s a Midwest girl and it’s then best place for her

[@heidikaufmann7467]

And she’s in that State Farm commercial with Reggie Miller

[@DemiB5030]

She probably will. Just wish any other city won the lottery. The Fever have been down bad for so long.

[@chrislawson501]

@@DemiB5030 and you wish they stayed down? That’s fucked.. if you actually gave a fuck about Caitlin you would be happy with this outcome because it’s the best one for her.

[@danwayment6842]

Yes, for Caitlin; NO, for Paige. Fudd is not going and UConn will be loaded!

[@usveteran9893]

I don't think Azzi will be drafted. Caitlyn may stay to try and break the scoring record. PB will stay to finally be able to play a full season with Azzi. EDIT: I didn't finish the video before I made a comment. You may have a point Caitlyn may wish to stay as close to the Midwest as possible.

[@TheDisruptiveOne]

UConn is loaded? They were supposed to be loaded this year. Stay to play with fudd? The player that gets hurt every year? Neither of those reasons make any sense. Paige and Caitlin are gone. To stay would be the equivalent of hiding in college. It’s time for both to go pro.

[@usveteran9893]

@@TheDisruptiveOne And it is not like PB doesn't get hurt every year..let's see about this season, and anyway it is just my opinions, opinions aren't necessarily wrong.

[@giftcardbill]

Oh yeah, and Janna, from Egypt, will be healthy, and she is a gamer. Check her stats in the FIBA world championships, over the years. Something like, 24 PPG, 10 REB, 8 assists. Scores at all three levels. And 6 foot five.

[@usveteran9893]

@@giftcardbill I am very well aware of Jana El Alfy. I think if just her was able to play this year it would be a big difference maker for UCONN.

[@briansaunders2814]

Caitlin can shoot lights out, no doubt. She has confidence in her offense. Yet, her defense is mediocre at best. Last night's game she had 9 turnovers on her own. Poor floor management and decisions. She also takes more shots than anyone else in NCAA, makes many for sure.

[@alanlee3236]

First past performance doesn't guarantee future performance. Caitlyn Clark won't average 27 ppg in the W. She'll be doing well to get 20 a game. She won't be able to walk across half court and launch a 3. Someone will be glued to her hip. That said, teams will more than likely value her and Paige as equal. They may rate her higher because of her rebounds and assists or they may rate Paige higher because of her defense or intangibles. So it's not clear cut that Indiana would take CC first if they both come out this year. Also, the best Seattle could do next year is 44%. The draft lottery order is not determined by the previous 2 years but a combination of the current year and the previous 2. Therefore Seattle would have to have the worst record in the W next year to get those odds. Unfortunately, we're still at the conjecture stage. Nice try with the CC-boyfriend logic though. Also, it is waaay too early to be determining who's winning it all. Remember how unstoppable SC looked last year heading into the tournament?

[@DemiB5030]

I disagree. CC #1 no contest. The fever are already focused on Clark. Her off the court draw and following in the Midwest, put it over the top. But I doubt she makes a life-changing decision based on some guy she’s dated, barely a year who might not even have his entry-level job next year 🙄

[@barryishikawa2048]

I also think Brink goes ahead of Bueckers this year. She’s more of a sure thing and has future star written all over her. Bueckers is more of a gamble with injury history and I think it’d be too big of a risk to pass up Brink. Guessing Paige goes #1 in 2025 if she (hopefully) stays healthy

[@back2sports]

Maybe, TBD , it is all speculation but as said if she goes after this year, I think the sparks will draft her as said Magic like himself stars. Remember he drafted L Ball for the Lakers as he liked the flash and star potential of Ball

[@DemiB5030]

I would easily take Brink over Bueckers. With her size and guard skills plus elite defense & I think she’s just scratching the surface.

[@robertcaccomo6639]

Paige isn't going anywhere. She's a huge star in Connecticut and she's probably making more money thanks to NIL payments playing at UConn than she's going to make in the WNBA so why would she want to walk away from that? Throw in the fact that her best friend is Azzi Fudd and three years into her college careers thanks to injuries they still haven't had the chance to play a full season together. She wants to win a national championship playing next to Fudd and if that is going to happen it's going to have to wait until the 2024-2025 season.

[@jjohnson3203]

I don't think Paige's decision will be based on NIL. NIL just means endorsements. I don't know the details of Paige's specific contracts, but I'd bet the house that the terms of her Nike and Gatorade deals are not contingent on her staying in college. They won't just drop her contract if she declares for the W this year. Aliyah Boston's UA deal (and others) carried over and I'd bet that Shaq will not simply drop Reese from Reebok when she goes to the W at some point. Now, I believe that some lower level player's deals are based on them being on their college rosters, but for the star players like Clark, Bueckers and Reese...almost all of those deals will carry over w/ them to the pros.

[@daijourcalloway998]

As a new York fan i NEEDDDDD CC to go to the W this year so my Liberty 🗽 can get Angel reese ❤️

[@nr30199]

Sabrina, Breanna and Angel Oh my!

[@daijourcalloway998]

@@nr30199 right ! Right!

[@kaitlinm7635]

Clark’s boyfriend even reposted the picture of Caitlin and Aliyah both in Fever uniforms together so maybe he knows something 🤷🏼‍♂️ All of Iowa’s veteran players this year are also graduating and they’re getting a ton of new recruits next year so Clark is going to want to move on from Iowa to let the next generation of players take over

[@zanniest]

True many seniors are leaving, she even said it herself she begged for Martin to stay another year. But Martin will surely go next year so CC will declare. Also, CC seems to want to be near her home with family. True as well that her bf is working with Indiana. Its a huge likelyhood but who knows maybe she really wants that NCAA title.

[@barryishikawa2048]

Clark is gone, I think Paige stays unless UCONN wins a title this year.

[@kona883]

If Azzi is healthy Paige will stay. And who would want to play in Phoenix. They are old and she will have no help!

[@GTheHookmanHart]

Cameron Brink is going number 2.

[@back2sports]

Not if PB in the draft IMO. But time will tell!

[@jamerson4051]

Clark, paige, Reese and any star will come back next yr.

[@brianmcguire500]

I have always disliked the Sparks.

[@paulboring9053]

Stay in school. WNBA blows

[@jackwalker1822]

I think Caitlyn goes, but Paige stays for another year.

[@JamesSmith-uw1ip]

WELCOME TO INDIANA CAITLIN

[@PlayboiBreezeTV]

Heck no…Brink will be in LA, Paige going 3

[@pleiku887]

I think if Caitlin told Sue Bird that if the Storm had first pick she would definitely go pro then there would be some heavy duty deal making going on or at least attempted.

[@wf2442]

LA is going to take Cameron Brink.

[@davidrichardson7221]

this one did not age well...

[@back2sports]

Actually fine with this video. I thought LA factor was important but PB said it is not. Yes I was wrong on PB but feel like I explained rational. As well think the info on Clark is ok. As well Mercury are massive losers. Looking like it is now a 2 person draft and gave swap rights of 1st rd pick to NY in 2025. That is real bad for them as they lose chance to build around Brink or PB.

[@TheDisruptiveOne]

It is time for both of them to go to the pros. They have mastered women’s college basketball. If Paige stays, I can at least understand it from the standpoint of what she has lost. If Caitlin stays, it is hiding in college and dodging competition. Maybe she knows she can’t guard in the wnba and she knows she needs to maximize her college money earned? I’m not sure there is another explanation.

[@usveteran9893]

That's quite an assumption you have concerning Caitlyn Clark. Have you ever considered that if Iowa doesn't win the title this year she may want to stay and try and get it next year? That isn't hiding or dodging competition, that in itself is being competitive. You gave two lousy explanations to satisfy your narrative, wow, you couldn't think of anything else.

[@MikeHoffey]

Clark stays an extra year to own all the NCAA records. Then she becomes her own celebrity, owns her own brand, without having to play BB, cherry picking the best endorsement deals. Forget about coach or private travel. She will have her own plane.

[@DemiB5030]

That makes no sense and she loves basketball. She can do that after she retires.

[@sharondabingham4882]

Both has to go to wnba

[@colleenposadas8415]

want to wager?

[@folsomflash]

She likes being the center of attraction.

[@harrykern616]

Neither one are going anywhere period.

[@sp123]

If Clark doesnt enter the draft, the media and fans will turn on her.

[@mwtroupe]

you win the stupidest post on the internet for today.

[@12345fowler]

Boring

[@BLKFLYGTI]

Paige is crazy if she doesn’t go…

[@TheDisruptiveOne]

They would both be crazy. It’s time to go pro. It’s not time to linger in college.