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Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Is Nike failing Caitlin Clark? Former insider call out brand for mishandling WNBA star
Caitlin Clark. Image via: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star and arguably the most influential figure in women's basketball today, is at the center of growing criticism aimed at Nike. In April 2024, The sportswear giant signed Clark to a landmark eight-year, $28 million endorsement deal shortly after she was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. But more than a year later, many, including former insiders, believe Nike has fallen far short of fully leveraging her unprecedented star power. Despite her fame, Clark has yet to receive a signature shoe. Over a year into the partnership, she has only received Player Exclusive (PE) sneakers from Nike's Kobe series. She has not been given a signature sneaker line or branded merchandise, marketing tools that are typically awarded to less accomplished male athletes. While she has appeared on national billboards and in a Super Bowl commercial, fans and insiders alike are questioning why Nike is holding back. In June 2024, when asked when her first signature shoe might arrive, Clark told reporters: 'I don't make those decisions so you'll have to wait and see.' At the time, she had not yet earned WNBA Rookie of the Year honors, which she would go on to receive in October 2024. Ex-marketing director speaks out The loudest critique came this week from Jordan Rogers, a former Brand Marketing Director for Nike Basketball, who spent over a decade at the company. In a TikTok video, Rogers accused Nike of mishandling Clark's immense marketability. He questioned the disparity between Nike's treatment of male and female athletes and how Clark, arguably the most culturally significant player since Jordan, hasn't received the same investment. "You have the single biggest needle mover in all of American sports since Michael Jordan , and you have somehow convinced yourself that you need to slow-play this?" Rogers said. He continued, "This seems like you have convinced yourself that this needs to be an either/or conversation. And we never have an either/or conversation in the men's sports , you have like 10 signature athletes [in the NBA], half of them don't deserve a signature shoe." Rogers further speculated that political backlash surrounding Clark may be making Nike hesitant to go all-in. "I am so confused as to why you wouldn't be doing bigger campaigns with [Clark]... One of the best explanations I can come up with is that you are wringing your hands and afraid to enter into this politically divisive conversation that has been co-opted by the media and pundits," he said. He ended his message to Nike with a plea: "You have the unicorn, the chosen one, the one who everyone wants to hear from, and you are just sitting around... Please, for the love of God, figure something out." Comparisons and fan frustration Clark's influence is undeniable. During her college career at Iowa, she played in two of the most-watched women's college basketball games in history. Her 2024 Elite Eight game against LSU drew 16 million viewers. Her presence at the WNBA Draft that year attracted a record 2.4 million viewers. In the WNBA, she has already claimed Rookie of the Year honors and is among the frontrunners for MVP this season. Yet, despite being one of the league's biggest stars, Clark lacks something her rookie classmate Angel Reese has secured: a signature shoe. Reese, who plays for the Chicago Sky, is set to release her own signature sneaker with Reebok on June 4. Fans have expressed confusion and disappointment, asking why Nike hasn't moved quicker to give Clark her own line , especially given her unmatched visibility and performance. Others are doing it better R ogers praised other brands , including Gatorade, State Farm, and Wilson , for doing a better job of embracing Clark's commercial appeal. 'Gatorade, State Farm and Wilson have all done a much better job in maximizing the value of the WNBA's 'unicorn' superstar,' he added. Fans have become increasingly vocal online, questioning Nike's apparent hesitation to give Clark her own brand line. Rogers' criticism only added to a growing sense of frustration. "I am so confused as to how you would be so invested in the WNBA for several years and you've been doing great work trying to elevate and uplift that league and many of the athletes," he said. As Nike faces mounting public pressure, the question remains: will they shift gears and give Clark the platform her popularity clearly demands? For now, all eyes, and expectations, remain on the brand to step up.
New York Post
3 days ago
- Sport
- New York Post
Leonie Fiebich did exactly what Liberty needed — and then some — in win
WASHINGTON — Leonie Fiebich is a not-so-secret stabilizer for the Liberty. She never gets too high or too low. She doesn't always put up the flashiest numbers. Her defensive efforts can go unappreciated by the average eye. But not to her teammates. She can score, but she knows her role on a team loaded with offensive firepower. In Friday's 85-63 win, though, with the Liberty gassed from playing a game the night before, Fiebich came in and did exactly what the Liberty needed from her. 3 Leonie Fiebich looks to make a move during the Liberty's 85-63 blowout road win over the Mystics on May 30, 2025. NBAE via Getty Images Fiebich played her best game of the season. She scored 12 points on 4-for-5 shooting (2-for-3 from deep) and contributed nine rebounds, three blocks and an assist. 3 Leonie Fiebich goes up for a layup during the Liberty's blowout road victory over the Mystics. NBAE via Getty Images It was the type of showing coach Sandy Brondello has come to expect from her German forward. 'Every day, you know what you're going to get day-in and day-out,' Brondello said of Fiebich. 'We appreciate that. She loves defense; she's so versatile. But you can see that. She was shooting 3s. She was cutting. She was posting out. So it was great for us.' Jonquel Jones called Fiebich a defensive anchor of the team. She can guard the opposing team's best guards or wings, using her length and athleticism to shut them down. 'She's someone that we're not worried about that matchup,' Jones said. 'We understand that she can go out there and just be really productive in that sense, but it's something that maybe other people overlook but we don't overlook it on our team. We understand how valuable she is to us.' Backup center Nyara Sabally remains sidelined with a right knee issue. Friday marked the fourth game Sabally missed this week after discomfort flared up in her surgically repaired knee while warming up for the Liberty's game at Indiana. Brondello has said Sabally is 'fine' and has expressed caution with not wanting to rush Sabally back to the floor before she's ready. 3 Nyara Sabally during a game last season. Michelle Farsi/New York Post 'Hopefully, she's back by Sunday,' Brondello said pregame. 'She's making progress but we want to make sure she's feeling 100 percent.' Sabally did an individual workout Thursday and has been shooting, Brondello said. But concern surrounding Sabally's knee continues to grow the longer she remains out. Jones recorded her fourth double-double of the season Friday and 26th since joining the Liberty before the 2023 season. Jones grabbed 18 rebounds, her most in a regular-season game since 2019. She also scored 14 points. The Liberty have yet to lose when Jones posts a double-double.
New York Post
3 days ago
- Sport
- New York Post
Sabrina Ionescu's huge night against Mystics leads Liberty to 6-0 start
WASHINGTON — Sabrina Ionescu played her best, most balanced offensive games of this young season Friday at a time when the Liberty needed her most. Less than 24 hours after making six 3s and scoring 24 points in a win against the Valkyries, Ionescu dropped a season-high 28 points on the Mystics court to propel the Liberty to an 85-63 win. Ionescu, who also handed out five assists, didn't do it alone. Advertisement 3 Sabrina Ionescu scored 28 points in the Liberty's win on May 30, 2025. NBAE via Getty Images Jonquel Jones was back in the lineup after missing Thursday's game with a hamstring issue. She had 14 points and 18 rebounds. Advertisement German forward Leonie Fiebich was also phenomenal, recording 12 points, nine rebounds and three blocks. The Liberty built an early lead and never let the Mystics back in. For a moment, it looked like the Liberty were slipping in the third quarter. 3 Stefanie Dolson of the Washington Mystics and Jonquel Jones of the New York Liberty go for a rebound. NBAE via Getty Images Advertisement The Mystics trimmed New York's 12-point halftime lead to five after scoring seven unanswered points. By the 6:56 mark, the Mystics were within four points. But the Liberty slammed the door on Washington with a 19-5 run to close out the third quarter. Advertisement So much for those supposed third-quarter woes, right? Jones and Ionescu scored eight and seven points, respectively, during that quarter to help give the Liberty a comfortable lead. 3 Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty drives to the basket during the game against the Washington Mystics. NBAE via Getty Images Some fans started heading toward the exits with more than two minutes left after Breanna Stewart's layup gave the Liberty a 20-point advantage. The Liberty are scheduled to play the Connecticut Sun on Sunday at Barclays Center.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Mouhamed Camara Commits To Louisville, Ready To Build On NBA Academy Africa Alumni's Impact
KIGALI, RWANDA - MAY 20: Mouhamed Camara #15 of Made By Ball Basketball poses for a portrait during ... More the Nile Conference group media day on May 20, 2025 at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Julien Bacot/NBAE via Getty Images) The University of Louisville has landed a new international commit whose journey embodies more than just talent, it represents the rising promise of Africa's basketball ecosystem. Mouhamed Camara's commitment is not only a personal milestone but also a continuation of the strong legacy forged by NBA Academy Africa alumni in recent years. Camara's development was shaped over three pivotal years at SEED Academy, where he built the mindset and foundation necessary for elite-level basketball. His breakout came in 2023 at the Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp, where he earned Defensive MVP honours, a performance that secured him a coveted spot at NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal, marking a crucial turning point in his growth. Since then, Camara has continued to hone his skills on major stages, participating in the 2024 NBA Academy Winter Tour, the 2025 NBA Academy Northeast Tour, and the 2024 NBA Academy Games. His outstanding play culminated in being named MVP of the 2024 NBA Academy Showcase, cementing his status as a high-potential forward. As he now prepares for the next step, moving to the U.S. for college, Camara's journey comes full circle. After competing with South Africa's MBB in the Basketball Africa League's (BAL) recent Nile Conference, he returns to South Africa for the BAL Showcase, the country where he first captured international attention at BWB Africa. Each chapter of his development has shaped not only the player but also the person he is becoming. In an interview with Camara shared more about his time under Sam Vincent, his commitment to Louisville, learning from NBA Academy Alumni as well as his time at the NBA Academy. KIGALI, RWANDA - MAY 20: Head Coach Sam Vincent of Made By Ball Basketball celebrates after the game ... More against Nairobi City Thunder during the Nile Conference group play on May 20, 2025 at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Armand Lenoir/NBAE via Getty Images) This season in The BAL gave Camara the chance to be coached by Sam Vincent, a former NBA champion. Vincent's leadership added a crucial element to the countless hours of training provided by the Academy coaches over the years. Under his guidance, Camara was able to apply those lessons in a competitive, high-stakes environment. Even when faced with early losses, he developed new levels of focus and professionalism. "Coach Sam just wanted to win," Camara stated."He was always thinking about winning. That's something I took from him." Playing with MBB was not just another stop before college; it reinforced everything he had worked on at the Academy."It was nothing different," Camara explained regarding his adjustment to BAL competition. "At the [NBA] Committing to the University of Louisville was a decision rooted in trust and mutual belief. "Louisville is a great program," Camara said. "Coach Pat Kelsey is different in the way he thinks, the way he talks to me, and just the confidence he has in me. It's a winning team." He becomes only the second NBA Academy Africa prospect to commit to Louisville, following former Cardinals center Emmanuel Okorafor. Camara understands that the road ahead will be challenging, but he is ready. In the recent Nile Conference, he recorded 2 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 block in just 9 minutes off the bench against Al Ahli Tripoli. This brief yet impactful performance showcased his ability to contribute quickly. KIGALI, RWANDA - MAY 20: Teafale Lenard Jr. #6 of Made by Basketball looks on during the game ... More against the Nairobi City Thunder during the Nile Conference Group on May 20, 2025 at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Julien Bacot/NBAE via Getty Images) Throughout his journey, Camara has learned alongside elite peers. He played with Obadiah Noel, now with APR, in 2023 and more recently with Teafale Lenard Jr. during MBB's 2024 BAL campaign, both of whom have G League experience. Competing with and against such talent elevated his own standards. 'I learned from their mentality, that they compete every day,' Camara said. 'They want to beat everybody.' The NBA Academy has helped refine Camara's offensive skills, decision-making, shooting, passing, and ball control, and has taught him how to play within a system. 'The difference between you and the kid outside is how you approach the game,' he explained. 'Because in the Academy, they teach you how to play.' Camara draws inspiration from NBA Academy alumni like Ulrich Chomche and Khaman Maluach, who exemplified a strong work ethic by dedicating countless hours to skill development. Chomche made history in the 2024 NBA Draft as the first NBA Academy Africa prospect drafted, going 57th overall to the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to the Toronto Raptors. He currently holds a two-way contract, averaging 8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists with Raptors 905. NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - MARCH 29: Khaman Maluach #9 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts against the Alabama ... More Crimson Tide during the first half in the East Regional Elite Eight round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Prudential Center on March 29, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by) Meanwhile, Maluach is set to enter the 2025 NBA Draft as a top rim protector after a stellar freshman season at Duke, where he averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and shot 71.2% from the field in 21.3 minutes per game. 'They were working harder every day, using every opportunity,' Camara said, reflecting on his observations of players like Chomche and Maluach. 'They always wanted to go to the gym, and I saw them make a lot of progress.' Camara has also benefited from his experiences with Senegal's senior national team, learning from veterans like Babacar Sané and Jean-Jacques Boissy. 'They support me in everything. They're here for me,' he said, reflecting on how his national team experiences have contributed to his personal growth. With the BAL Showcase marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, Camara carries a unique blend of African tenacity, global exposure, and refined fundamentals. His decision to attend Louisville not only signals his readiness but also serves as an affirmation of the pathways being created across Africa for young athletes. 'Keep all my confidence up. Never lose my confidence. Beat everybody,' he stated, articulating his approach moving forward. Mouhamed Camara's commitment symbolises the success of an entire ecosystem. With Louisville in his sights, the journey that began in Senegal takes a giant leap forward, rooted in the lessons he's learned, the connections he's built, and the promise of an entire continent carried on his shoulders.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Dietitian warns that LeBron James' extreme 2 p.m. diet is ‘not ideal': ‘It is only going to get you so far'
An expert weighs in on the safety and efficacy of LeBron James's extreme fasting and training regimen. Can working out on an empty stomach work for you? On a recent episode of the 'Mind the Game' podcast, basketball legend LeBron James shared his daily training routine, revealing that he doesn't eat a full meal until after his sweat session and well after noon. Advertisement While the strategy is clearly effective for James — who at 40 has spent more than two decades at peak athletic performance levels — some experts warn that this fasting protocol could be detrimental for mere mortals. 'This type of nutrition routine is not ideal for most active individuals,' said Melissa Mitri, a registered dietitian at Welltech. 'A large body of research suggests that fueling both before and after exercise is beneficial for optimal performance, recovery, and muscle-building benefits.' James showed off his impressive commitment to hydration, revealing that he drinks two 64-ounce bottles of water per day. NBAE via Getty Images James disclosed to host and former baller Steve Nash that he postpones his first meal until after practice, supplementing with juice or fruit. Advertisement 'I have either a green juice or some fruit or whatever the case may be, but I don't eat a full meal until I get back home after practice,' he said. 'My first meal is usually around 1:30, 2 o'clock.' Mitri explained that training in this fasted state forces the body to pull from carbohydrate reserves in the muscles and then the brain, which in turn, can lead to fatigue, brain fog and weakness. Meanwhile, having low blood sugar can lead to irritability and mood swings, while fasting can also lead to a cortisol response that can contribute to feelings of anxiety. 'Depending on the amount of glycogen a person has, they can become depleted very quickly or more slowly,' she said. Advertisement 'There is a small subset of people like LeBron that may perform well under fasting conditions, such as those who have a large amount of glycogen stores to pull from for energy,' Mitri noted. She suggested that it likely took time for James' metabolism to adjust to exercising in a fasted state, and that the athlete may have experienced an initial performance dip as his body acclimated to this strategy. James talking to Steven Nash in a recent episode of the 'Mind the Game' podcast, which both of them host. Mind the Game While it may be fork down for James, it's certainly bottoms up. He showed off his impressive commitment to hydration during the podcast, revealing that he drinks two 64-ounce bottles of water per day. Advertisement Mitri noted that though H20 is critical for athletes, it is not a substitute for sustenance. 'While hydration can support exercise performance, it is only going to get you so far in terms of endurance. Proper fuel is also essential to nourish hard-working muscles,' she said. Mitri admitted that those with digestive issues may feel better fasting before exercising; however, she argues that rather than avoiding caloric fuel entirely, people should experiment to find the best source and schedule for them. 'This can be achieved with a little trial and error, which may involve consuming snacks or meals that are lower in fiber, fat, or liquid content to alleviate potential gastrointestinal discomfort,' she said. After practice, James opts for a fruit smoothie or overnight oats to replenish his energy. anna_shepulova – After practice, James opts for a fruit smoothie or overnight oats to replenish his energy, choices that earn Mitri's seal of approval. Advertisement 'These are both quality options to have for recovery, as they contain a balance of carbohydrates and protein to replenish muscle glycogen stores,' she said. Mitri suggests that active adults consume a combination of carbs, protein and healthy fats as soon as possible after exercising to accelerate the recovery process. Her go-to choices include Greek yogurt with fruit and whole-grain avocado toast. According to Mitri, a wholesome diet rich in foods like these trumps any individual supplement. 'To support general health, a food-first approach is always best, as the combination of nutrients that work together in whole foods provides more benefits than single-nutrient supplements alone,' she said. Advertisement Mitri said that though James' fasting and training routine may work for him, she would stop short of suggesting anyone else try it. 'While following this routine has clearly worked for LeBron James, allowing him to perform at elite levels despite his age, I would not recommend his eating schedule for most people engaging in strenuous physical activity, such as competitive sports, running, biking, and heavier strength training,' she said. However, for those looking to burn calories and lose weight, adopting James' 'sweat first, eat second' approach could pay off. A 2019 study found that participants who engaged in physical activity prior to eating their first meal of the day 'burned double the amount of fat' compared to the group who exercised after breakfast.
