DES MOINES, Iowa — There's no denying the fact that the Caitlin Clark Effect is real, and as she finished her rookie season in the WNBA, she's broke records on the court and off the court.
Some may deem Clark as 'Iowa royalty,' as while she is paving the way for women athletes in Iowa, her success continues to show across the state.
Clark's first major NIL deal came from the locally founded Hy-Vee, and it is reflecting on the impact she has had.
"It is the Caitlin Clark Effect, anything that we're going to put in the store to be able to celebrate her, to be able to bring more awareness to her and her brand, is a win-win for both sides," said Tina Potthoff, Senior Vice President of Communications at Hy-Vee.
At Hy-Vee, Clark sold 48,000 boxes of Clark-branded cereal in just weeks when it first launched. She also sold a number of player cards.
Now, Hy-Vee has announced a partnership with Wilson. Before Thanksgiving, Hy-Vee will be selling custom Wilson basketballs, signed by Caitlin Clark.
Another major retailer Caitlin Clark has had an impact on is Dick's Sporting Goods. According to Dick's, Clark's Indiana Fever apparel was the first female athlete's apparel available in all Dick's stores nationwide.
Finally, another record set, according to Basketball Insiders, a Clark WNBA signed draft card sold for $84,000 this past week. This price broke the record, which was already held by Clark, for most expensive women's basketball card.
Hy-Vee is comparing her success alongside some of the greats.
"If we were to look at anyone that would have potentially her level of success, you might be looking at Patrick Mahomes," Potthoff said.