Caitlin Clark: 'Wearing Iowa across my chest the last four years has been an honor'
Caitlin Clark‘s historic career at Iowa came to an end on Sunday after the Hawkeyes fell in the national championship yet again to an SEC powerhouse. With South Carolina defeating Iowa 87-75 in the rematch of last year’s Final Four matchup.
Clark declared for the 2024 WNBA Draft earlier this year despite having one season of eligibility remaining. As Sunday’s loss will now represent the final game of her historic college career.
During her time in Iowa City Clark broke records, elevated the game of women’s college basketball, and took the Iowa program to new heights. Helping lead the Hawkeyes to two national championship game appearances, three Big Ten Tournament titles, and one regular season conference championship. And as she now embarks on a new chapter of her career, she shared some touching words via social media following Sunday’s game.
“Words cannot express my love for my teammates, coaches, fans and our university – Thanks for making my dreams come true. Wearing Iowa across my chest the last four years has been an honor. This place will always be home,” Clark wrote on Twitter followed by a back heart.
Clark ends her Hawkeye career as one of the most accomplished collegiate athletes of all time. Becoming the all-time leading scorer across men’s and women’s basketball and the only player with 3,000 career points and 1,000 career assists. Also taking home a multitude of National Player of the Year awards this season, many for second and third times, to add to her robust list of broken records and accomplishments.
Her personal achievements are undeniable, and her status as one of the greatest women’s college basketball players has been popularly discussed recently after failing to deliver Iowa with a national championship.
But what can’t be debated is her impact on the women’s game at large, serving as a catalyst that’s brought more attention to the sport than any other player. Helping break viewership and attendance records all while inspiring the next generation of players in the process.
On and off the court Clark has changed the game of women’s college basketball, leaving many curious if she can do the same at the WNBA level. Expected by most to team up with Aliyah Boston after being selected with the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever in the upcoming draft.
The Fever doubled their season ticket prices swiftly after Clark declared for the WNBA Draft. As what has been referred to as the ‘Caitlin Clark Effect’ is already being seen before making her highly anticipated jump to the next level.