The past year has been a whirlwind for Caitlin Clark, whose stardom has skyrocketed beyond what even she might have imagined. After leading her Iowa Hawkeyes to the national championship game and becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Clark has become a sensation in the sports world. Her name and image are now a daily topic on sports talk shows and are prominently featured in marketing campaigns nationwide.
However, her latest advertisement with Gatorade has stirred some controversy and humor among fans. On Friday, the sports drink company unveiled a massive billboard featuring Clark with the iconic slogan “Is It In You?”
Gatorade’s new ad for Caitlin Clark
“Is It In You?” 🔥
(Via @FOS ) pic.twitter.com/wYnPJjVY4k
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 28, 2024
While this slogan has been a staple for Gatorade for decades, younger audiences on social media have latched onto its euphemistic potential, resulting in a wave of jokes and playful criticism.
Despite the lighthearted ribbing from social media, it’s likely that Clark is unfazed, given the substantial endorsement deal with Gatorade. The financial benefits and increased visibility far outweigh the juvenile humor circulating online. However, the situation has certainly provided some entertainment and a glimpse into the unpredictable world of public perception and advertising.
12yr olds going crazy in the replies not knowing this has been the slogan since 1998 https://t.co/FjMBYb37eo pic.twitter.com/IG6xH3pCYr
— Remain Nameless (@Ferd_Turgeson) June 28, 2024
There is no way they’ve gone with that phrase? https://t.co/DVqdr4Gyb2
— Lukas (@lu_thirty_1) June 28, 2024
Whoever came up with this idea should be fired https://t.co/0mrcODBi10
— JV (@_Just_Vibes_) June 28, 2024
Does Gatorade sell strap-ons now? https://t.co/pE0hbjUSof
— Nerdy Nightly (@NerdyNightly) June 28, 2024
Ain’t no way not one person on their creative team said “wait just a sec” https://t.co/JTmzG7Jban
— conor (23 hrs) (@gwenstefanisbox) June 28, 2024
As Clark continues to adjust to her newfound fame and navigate her rookie season in the WNBA, instances like these highlight the intersection of sports, media, and culture. While some fans may be having fun at her expense, Clark’s continued success and prominent marketing deals signal a bright future both on and off the court.