Christine Brennan fuels wild theory Caitlin Clark could start own league

Columnist Christine Brennan suggested during an ESPN LA radio appearance that Caitlin Clark has the financial backing and marketability to potentially start her own basketball league, competing with the WNBA. Brennan cited Clark's massive endorsement deals, including $28 million from Nike, and her unparalleled ability to drive television ratings as key reasons this idea is "fascinating and doable." She attributed the feasibility partly to a "void in the vacuum of leadership" exhibited by the WNBA.

While acknowledging the absurdity of the notion, the article notes Brennan did not dismiss the idea. This is significant given Brennan's history of commentary on Clark, which includes previous criticism from the WNBPA for questioning player intent involving Clark and implying the league hasn't adequately protected her. The article suggests Brennan's stance, despite this history and her role as Clark's biographer, makes the idea feel less "out of bounds," especially if the WNBA doesn't capitalize on Clark's stardom.

However, the article strongly cautions against taking Brennan's speculation as fact or gospel. It emphasizes that while Clark's impact on ratings and interest ("the Caitlin Clark effect") is undeniable and unprecedented in women's basketball, the concept of her leaving the WNBA to form her own league – even with Nike backing – ultimately feels more like a "fun hypothetical" or "fantasy" than a realistic possibility.