Caitlin Clark News on Wednesday Draws Immediate Attention

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sami Haider | Last updated Feb 18, 2026 1:17 PM ET

Caitlin Clark's second season in the WNBA was significantly hampered by recurring lower-body injuries, marking the first time in her high school, college or professional career that she missed significant time. She was limited to just 13 games during the regular season, averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals.

Despite her significant absence, the Indiana Fever qualified for the playoffs as the sixth seed and advanced to the WNBA semifinals after defeating the Atlanta Dream. Their postseason run eventually ended in a five-game series loss to the Las Vegas Aces.

Clark’s market value, however, didn't suffer because of the limited appearances. In 2025, she made around $16.1 million entirely from endorsements. While her Nike deal pays her about $3.5 million a year, her total portfolio now includes more than a dozen major brands.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) shoots the ball. Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn ImagesTrevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Heading into 2026, her financial standing is stronger than ever as she prepares to launch her first signature sneaker. And the latest addition to her résumé dropped Wednesday in the form of a Gatorade promotion, leaving fans buzzing.

Indiana Pacers All-Star Tyrese Haliburton recently surprised Clark with the news that her favorite flavor, Rain Berry, is returning. It will be part of a new Lower Sugar line.

To celebrate that, Gatorade is selling 2,200 exclusive bottles with Clark's face on them for $22 each starting Thursday morning on its website. The flavor will be available in regular stores everywhere starting this March

Stay locked in ⚡️ 1-of-2,200 exclusive @CaitlinClark22 x Rain Berry Lower Sugar bottles are coming to https://t.co/rqiui6RcPe 2/19 at 10am EST. pic.twitter.com/9vgjGPq6lI
— Gatorade (@Gatorade) February 18, 2026

Clark is scheduled to return to the court this April, starting with a preseason game against New York Liberty on April 25 and a home game against Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings on April 30. And the Fever’s regular season is set to begin May 9.

However, these dates aren't set in stone. The league and the players' union are still negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement, and if they don't reach a deal soon, the season could be delayed by a lockout or strike.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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