Everything a rookie could possibly dream of? Caitlin Clark already has it. Scoring records. Leading the league in assists. Packed arenas and record-breaking TV viewership. And that’s why she’s 2024 Rookie of the Year. But don’t get it twisted, she isn’t your average overnight sensation. Why? She’s not satisfied just yet. That hunger, that fire, it’s still burning. That’s why she’s been putting in serious work in the weight room. You can try to ignore the muscle gain, but good luck pretending it’s just “camera angles and AI,” as she jokingly claimed. Because the truth is, Clark is stronger, more determined, and laser-focused on what’s next. Her five-word warning to the league said it all: “Nobody going to push her around.” Well… maybe not nobody.

It’s not Paige Bueckers. It’s not even her long-standing rival, Angel Reese. It’s Rickea Jackson, quietly but confidently carving out her place in the league. Recently, Jackson appeared on the Broadcast Boys podcast and was hit with a playful but telling question: “If you had the chance to steal Caitlin Clark’s shooting ability, and no one would ever find out—would you do it?”

Her answer? A quick, unapologetic: “Yes.” When pressed further—told Clark would lose her shooting touch forever—she doubled down: “Yes.” Don’t get her wrong. It is not malice, it is just hunger, and with just the right amount of respect. Clark’s 34.4% three-point shooting and 90.6% free-throw clip last season set a rookie standard, and her rivals know catching her means matching that precision.

Despite playing on a struggling Los Angeles Sparks team that limped to an 8-32 record and missed the playoffs for a third straight year, Rickea was one of the few consistent bright spots. Her rookie season was proof of her potential—a steady presence, a fighter, and someone who refused to be defined by her team’s setbacks. But here’s the real question: Is all this enough to challenge Caitlin Clark, the WNBA’s ultimate game-changer? Maybe.

But before the season tips off and offseason chatter is put to the test against Clark, she’s taking it easy in her own unique way.

Recently, Clark was spotted on a high-profile panel alongside broadcasting icon Jim Nantz, actor Will Arnett, and none other than Peyton Manning, the NFL’s two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time MVP. And well, we all know that Clark is a big fan of 3’s no matter the sport. Hence, she was there, speaking at an event for The Masters, hosted by NetJets. “Special guests for a special evening. Cheers to another extraordinary,” NetJets shared on Instagram. Oh, and the cherry on top? She also got to meet one of her favorite artists, Noah Kahan. We can almost imagine her jamming it out with the “Stick Season” singer!

What caught many eyes was Clark’s outfit, which just felt so perfect in the warm April glow. As per AthlonSports, she first made her appearance donning a white Masters cap and pink Nike longsleeve shirt. However, when she walked onto the stage to speak and sit with the panel, she was rocking a blue “The Suits You Blazer” from Favorite Daughter, paired with a matching “The Favorite Skort” skirt. Taking the look up a notch, she completed with a gold chain necklace and pretty stud earrings. Talk about celebrity vibes?

But this wasn’t just for show. Manning isn’t just some retired quarterback—he was a transformative figure in the NFL. And for Clark, who’s well on her way to redefining women’s basketball, there’s a lot to learn from someone like him. And Manning? He’s clearly been watching. Back when Clark shattered the NCAA all-time scoring record during Iowa’s 106-89 win over Michigan, guess who sent her flowers almost instantly? Peyton Manning.

He shared,  “When I played, I hated settling for three points, but you’ve actually turned me into a huge fan of the three. Not an easy task — and I know you’ve inspired millions of other people along the way.”

And he wasn’t wrong. Manning and Clark even joined tennis legend Serena Williams in a deeper discussion on the future of women’s sports, as well as the NFL’s efforts to grow flag football. The fact that the NFL invited Clark to speak about her influence on women’s athletics says everything about the impact she’s already made beyond the hardwood. But, with all her offseason activity, some are questioning: is Clark so focused on changing the game off the court that she might be overlooking the threats building on it?

Two reasons Caitlin Clark must refocus on the WNBA

Caitlin Clark is continuing to dominate headlines while carrying a huge share of the W’s spotlight. And that’s why she’s even drawing praise from legends like LeBron James, who once said she has the rare ability to “make people want to watch”. But, consider Rickea Jackson no less.

She’s not a rival in the typical sense, but she’s definitely someone who’s not afraid to challenge the status quo. In a league that thrives on bold personalities and compelling storylines, Rickea’s refreshingly honest comment was the kind of confident jab that doesn’t just turn heads… it keeps the conversation going.

So while Clark and Angel Reese may still dominate most of the chatter, sleeping on Rickea would be a mistake. She’s not just part of the conversation—she’s ready to take it over. And, honestly, her numbers back it up. In her rookie season, Jackson averaged a solid 13.4 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, shooting 45.6% from the field and 80.7% from the line. Those aren’t just decent rookie stats—they’re All-Rookie Team worthy. And yes, she earned that title with pride.

Need a reminder of her potential? Just rewind to June 14th last season, when she faced off against the playoff-bound Minnesota Lynx. Jackson dropped 6-of-10 from the floor and 7-of-8 from the stripe—marking her only double-double of the season. And she did it against a tough, competitive squad.

But Jackson’s not the only challenger Clark should be watching closely.

Enter Angel Reese—her longtime rival and Chi-Town Barbie with a point to prove. Their next clash is already heating up, especially after their last meeting ended with Indiana stomping the Chicago Sky 100–81. Clark exploded for a career-high 31 points and dished out 12 assists that game, sending a clear message—but don’t think Reese has forgotten.

Both Jackson and Reese are gearing up. And Clark? She’s got all eyes on her. After not being able to make a deeper run in the 2024 postseason, 2025 is her moment to rise.