Caitlin Clark’s second WNBA season didn’t go as planned, as she watched from the sideline while her Indiana Fever advanced to Game 5 of the semifinals without her. Still, despite appearing in only 13 games, Clark was named an All-Star captain alongside Napheesa Collier after averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game.
Before Clark became a WNBA star, she made her name during a record-breaking college career with the Iowa Hawkeyes. On her way to becoming the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, she landed numerous NIL deals with major brands such as Gatorade, State Farm and Nike. Amid her growing popularity, Clark signed with Excel Sports Management before her senior season to help manage her brand.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Founded in 2002 by Jeff Schwartz, Excel Sports Management has grown into one of the premier sports management and marketing agencies in the world. In addition to representing Clark, the firm’s roster includes stars from across multiple sports, such as NBA guard Jamal Murray, NFL legend Joe Montana and golf icon Tiger Woods.
But on Thursday, the Financial Times reported that investment banking firm Goldman Sachs is in “late-stage” talks to acquire a majority stake in Excel Sports Management, a deal valued at roughly $1 billion.
“Goldman Sachs is nearing a deal to buy a majority stake in the sports talent agency representing Tiger Woods, Caitlin Clark and Derek Jeter, as Wall Street deepens its bets on the booming sports industry,” Financial Times wrote. “Goldman’s asset management division was in late-stage talks to buy a controlling stake in Excel Sports Management at a near $1bn valuation, said two people briefed on the matter.”
Per the Financial Times, the deal could happen “as soon as next week,” but it likely won’t have a direct impact on Clark. This also comes after Goldman Sachs landed another $1 billion deal for a venture capital firm.
Meanwhile, Clark continues to recover from the groin and ankle injuries that sidelined her for the postseason. She’s currently participating in 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 drills but has yet to return to full 5-on-5 action. Still, she’s expected to be ready for the start of the 2026 WNBA season.
Related: Indiana Fever Star Names Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese For WNBA Netflix Series
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Oct 24, 2025, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.