In exciting news for basketball fans, sportswear giant Nike Inc. is reportedly in advanced talks with basketball star Caitlin Clark for an eight-figure endorsement deal ahead of her highly anticipated WNBA debut in May, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.

Clark, who recently made history as the top pick in the WNBA draft, selected by the Indiana Fever, had previously been sponsored by Nike under a name, image, and likeness agreement during her time as a standout student-athlete at the University of Iowa.

While a spokesperson for Nike declined to comment on the specifics of the deal, sources suggest that an agreement is imminent and could be finalized soon. If successful, this endorsement deal would mark a significant milestone for the young basketball phenom.

Notably, Nike Chief Executive Officer John Donahoe previously mentioned Clark during a conference call with investors and analysts in March, highlighting her exceptional talent and the potential for a partnership. Following her remarkable feat of breaking the NCAA scoring record, Nike also featured Clark in a commercial that aired in the same month, further fueling excitement around her career.

Joining the ranks of Nike's roster of talented athletes, Clark is expected to have her own signature shoe line with the sportswear company. This move aligns with Nike's strategy of assembling a lineup of young basketball stars, such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Ja Morant, Zion Williamson, and Devin Booker. With the anticipated retirements of veteran players like James and Durant, Nike is keen to invest in rising talents like Clark.

The development also sheds light on the increasing attention and investment in women's sports by major athletic brands. As viewership of female sports continues to rise and more stars emerge, brands like Nike are recognizing the potential and marketability of women athletes. Nike's previous collaboration with New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu, which resulted in a signature shoe line, has seen success with her sneakers resonating across gender, even among NBA players.

While details of the endorsement deal are yet to be disclosed, the Athletic was the first to report on the close agreement between Clark and Nike. Fans eagerly await further updates on this exciting collaboration as Clark prepares to make her mark in the WNBA, potentially with a signature Nike shoe line to complement her exceptional skills on the court.