The WNBA is poised to experience a significant boost in viewership with the entry of Caitlin Clark, an instant game-changer.
The level of interest in Clark’s performance is so intense that sportsbooks nationwide are already listing her season-long player props — a clear indication of the early betting opportunities she presents.
When shopping for props, it’s best to consider sportsbooks that offer a yes/no option if they’re available.
As a result, we’ll utilize FanDuel and BetRivers for three futures bets that can add value to our portfolios. (All wagers require her to play a minimum of 28 games).
To record 1+ made 3-pointer in every regular-season game (+300, FanDuel)
This is the one prop at a plus price that might be of some interest. In her final two years at Iowa (77 games), Clark recorded at least one 3-pointer in each game.
In her senior year, 60 percent of her shot attempts (22.7) came from behind the arc.
Clark should feel right at home, considering that the WNBA 3-point line (22 feet and 1.75 inches) is precisely the same as in the women’s college game.
We already know her range extends out to the logo, and given that she’s 6-feet tall, she should have no problem getting her shot up in a league where the average point guard height is 5-9.
Average points per game Under 22.5 (-134, BetRivers)
If Clark averages 22.5 points in her first year in the league, we might as well give her the MVP award right now.
Based on this prop number, Clark would’ve finished fourth in scoring behind Jewell Loyd (24.7), Breanna Stewart (23.0) and A’ja Wilson (22.8).
You don’t just waltz into the W and put up over 22 ppg as a rookie. It’s worth noting that no first-year player in the WNBA has ever averaged that many.
Minnesota’s Seimone Augustus came the closest in 2006 when she averaged 21.9 points. In 2018, Wilson (20.7) became only the second rookie to average 20 or more points in league history.
Sportsbooks are well aware of these historical numbers, making it somewhat dubious at 22.5.
Betting on the NBA?
3-pointers per game: Over 3.5 (-120, BetRivers)
I gave this prop some considerable thought before deciding on a smaller unit size. Based on her player profile, Clark has a good chance to have enough volume to go over this number.
The Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu led the league with 3.6 3-pointers per game last season, averaging 7.9 attempts. Clark averaged 13.6 3-point attempts in her senior year.
While she won’t have the full responsibility of carrying the team, her quick release and ability to shoot off the catch are qualities that should translate well at the next level.
Indiana is a team desperate for perimeter shooting after finishing 10th in both attempts (19.8) and field goals (6.7).
Given those paltry numbers, don’t be surprised if Clark gets the green light early and often from Fever head coach Christie Sides.
