WNBA’s statement on Indiana Fever’ Caitlin Clark’s offseason decision

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Feb 27, 2026 9:05 AM ET

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark has never needed a basketball court to command attention.

The 24-year-old took the WNBA by storm from the moment she arrived, claiming Rookie of the Year honors, leading the league in assists and earning All-Star recognition in her first season.

Her sophomore campaign showed flashes of even greater things before injuries limited her to just 13 appearances. She still averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Clark’s influence stretches well beyond the hardwood. She has become one of sports’ most recognizable faces, turning heads wherever she goes, even in Europe.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) returned to Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City for a WNBA preseason game.

Fever: Caitlin Clark stuns during Milan Fashion Week, WNBA reacts

Clark was in Italy on Thursday for Prada’s Fall 2026 fashion show during Milan Fashion Week.

The two-time All-Star looked sharp in a Prada belt with beige pants, a blue-and-white striped cropped polo and a dark gray oversized coat draped over her shoulders. She finished the look with brown suede heels and a small bag.

The WNBA took notice. The league made a statement on Instagram and shared photos of Clark’s stylish arrival.

“Caitlin Clark steps out for Milan Fashion Week,” the caption read.

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It was a natural fit for the Iowa native. Clark has maintained a long-standing relationship with the luxury fashion house, dating back to the 2024 WNBA Draft. That night, she wore a custom white Prada two-piece set before being selected No. 1 overall by the Fever.

She also became the first professional basketball player Prada ever dressed for a draft.

Clark was not alone in the front row. Chinese-American freestyle skier and Olympic champion Eileen Gu joined her at the event, fresh off a decorated run at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The two were photographed side by side, drawing attention from sports and fashion circles alike.

The WNBA and its players are still working through collective bargaining agreement negotiations. In the meantime, Clark is making the most of her offseason on her own terms.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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