Caitlin Clark Named WNBA All-Star Captain, Sells Out Signature Nike Shoe in Minutes

Caitlin Clark’s star power continues to shine on and off the court, as the Indiana Fever guard headlines the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game and makes waves in the sneaker world.

Clark was officially named a starter and captain for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game, set for July 19 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis — her home arena. She earned the honor after dominating the fan vote with 1,293,536 votes, the most in a single season in league history. Despite the overwhelming support from fans and solid backing from media, her fellow players were less enthusiastic, ranking her just ninth among guards in the player vote, leaving her off many ballots entirely.

Statistically, Clark’s sophomore campaign has had its ups and downs. She’s averaging 18.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and a league-best 8.9 assists per game, though her 3-point shooting has dipped to 29.5% and she leads the league in turnovers with 5.9 per game. She’s also missed time due to injury, sitting out seven of the Fever’s first 16 games. Still, her impact on the game and culture of women’s basketball remains undeniable.

Off the court, Clark made headlines again as Nike released her version of the Kobe V Protro sneaker on Monday morning — and it sold out within minutes. The shoe, which retails for $190, features a bold design inspired by her Indiana Fever team colors: midnight navy, bright crimson, and university gold. The initial drop vanished almost instantly online, with resale prices already topping $350 on sites like eBay.

Nike hasn’t revealed how many pairs were released or when more will be available, but the shoe’s rapid sellout underscores Clark’s market appeal. Sneaker designer and cultural voice Jeff Staple called the release a “new chapter” in women’s sports, signaling an era where top female athletes can build brand empires akin to their male counterparts.

Though not the first WNBA player with a signature shoe, Clark’s partnership with the iconic Kobe Bryant brand offers a strategic launchpad, especially among male sneaker fans. “This isn’t her rookie card, but it’s definitely a reset — a sign that women’s sports are here to stay and grow,” said Staple.

Clark will co-captain the All-Star Game alongside Napheesa Collier, the league’s current leading scorer, in what promises to be both a celebration of the WNBA’s present and a glimpse into its rapidly growing future.