Caitlin Clark beats Ju Ju Watkins but falls behind NBA's $55,174,766 superstar in massive poll

WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark edged out USC standout Ju Ju Watkins in the Associated Press (AP) poll for the biggest rising athletes of 2025. The poll, which included 74 AP staff and members, saw Clark securing seven votes, narrowly surpassing Ju Ju's six. Despite finishing ahead of Watkins, the Indiana Fever point guard trailed behind NBA sensation Victor Wembanyama.

Wembanyama, currently on a four-year, $55,174,766 contract with the San Antonio Spurs, topped the poll with 11 votes, four more than Clark.

Meanwhile, Duke Blue Devils standout Cooper Flagg tied with Clark for the second spot, also earning seven votes. Ju Ju Watkins finished fourth, tied with Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who likewise received six votes.

On Tuesday, Caitlin Clark became just the fourth women’s basketball player to be named the AP Female Athlete of the Year, joining an elite group that includes Sheryl Swoopes, Rebecca Lobo and Candace Parker (a two-time honoree).

Clark, who previously earned AP Rookie of the Year honors, was recognized for her significant impact both on and off the court. The former Iowa standout received 35 of the 74 votes, narrowly surpassing seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, who garnered 25 votes. Boxer Imane Khelif finished third with four votes.

Caitlin Clark reflects on a whirlwind year

Caitlin Clark made a seamless transition from college basketball to the WNBA in 2024, instantly boosting the league's global popularity. In her rookie season, Clark played all 40 games for the Indiana Fever, leading the franchise to its first playoff appearance in eight years.

After being named the AP Female Athlete of the Year, Clark reflected on her remarkable year, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to her journey and success.

"I’m thankful for the people I got to do it with,” Clark told AP. "A year ago I was still in the early part of my senior year in college. ... How fast things change, and now I can see how great a college season it was."

Meanwhile, Clark is making the most of her offseason, recently spotted training in the gym alongside the Indiana Fever's newly-appointed head coach Stephanie White. The star point guard is set to return to the court for the 2025 WNBA season.