Nike releases — and sells out — WNBA star Caitlin Clark's version of Kobe Bryant's sneaker
NBCJUL 4
Caitlin Clark-Sponsored Nike Sneakers Sell Out in Minutes
Above: Caitlin Clark, #22 of the Indiana Fever, warms up before a game against the Seattle Storm at Climate Pledge Arena on June 24, 2025, in Seattle, Washington. Image copyright: Alika Jenner/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Caitlin Clark's Nike shoes selling out in minutes is no surprise — she's a generational talent who's transformed the WNBA. Despite some jealous players downplaying her impact, Clark has broken records, packed arenas, and drawn millions of new fans to the sport. She's the face of the league, and the numbers prove it.
Narrative B
While Clark's impact on the game is undeniable, as shown by her marketability, not every criticism of her is unfounded, such as her ninth-place ranking among WNBA guards by players. Missing seven games due to injuries, Clark's 2025 stats — eighth in points, most turnovers, and a 61st-ranked assist-to-turnover ratio — reflect a dip from her 2024 performance.