Iowa Guard Caitlin Clark Signs with Excel Sports Management
Iowa guard Caitlin Clark, one of the most recognizable college athletes in the country, has recently signed with Excel Sports Management, according to a news release. This move comes as Clark has already amassed several impressive NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and partnerships without a management team. With deals already in place with Nike, State Farm, and Topps trading cards, among others, Clark’s signing with Excel Sports Management further solidifies her status as a rising star in the sports world.
Excel Sports Management is a renowned agency that represents top athletes such as Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning. They also have an impressive roster of women’s basketball players, including three-time WNBA All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, three-time WNBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist Napheesa Collier, and WNBA All-Rookie player NaLyssa Smith. Clark will be represented by Alan Zucker, Colleen Garrity, and Erin Kane.
In a statement, Clark expressed her excitement about joining Excel Sports Management and the opportunities it presents. She acknowledged the changing landscape of sports, where business and entertainment are more intertwined than ever before. Clark believes that Excel’s track record of helping clients extend their profile and impact beyond their sport aligns with her goals. She looks forward to being part of innovative partnerships, elevating women’s sports, and supporting others through the Caitlin Clark Foundation.
Clark’s rise to fame began with her impressive performances on the court. As the 2023 Naismith winner, she gained recognition for her triple-doubles and seemingly limitless shooting range. Last season, she led Iowa to a national title game appearance and made history as the first player in NCAA women’s basketball to record over 1,000 points and 300 assists in a single season.
While Clark has stated that she views the upcoming 2023-24 season as her final college season, there is a possibility that she could return for another year. The COVID-19 bonus season allows players to eschew the 2024 WNBA Draft and continue playing in college. However, if she decides to enter the draft, Clark is expected to be a lottery pick and could potentially compete for the top selection against players like Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers, who also have the option to return for future seasons.
In conclusion, Caitlin Clark’s signing with Excel Sports Management marks another milestone in her already impressive career. With a strong management team behind her, she is poised to continue making waves in the sports world. As she looks ahead to her final college season and potentially the WNBA Draft, Clark’s talent and marketability make her a sought-after athlete. Her partnership with Excel Sports Management will undoubtedly open doors for innovative partnerships and opportunities to elevate women’s sports.