Caitlin Clark’s jersey number will be retired by Iowa
The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team announced that it will be retiring Caitlin Clarks Jersey February. 2.
Clark’s No. 22, which she wears for the Indiana feverwill hang from the rafters of Carver-Hawkeye Arena following a ceremony honoring the program’s winningest player.
Clark is expected to attend and the event will be broadcast on FOX.
“I am forever proud to be a Hawkeye and Iowa has a special place in my heart that is bigger than just basketball,” Clark said in the announcement.
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“It means a lot to me to receive this honor and celebrate it with my family, friends and alumni. It will be a great feeling to look up from under the rafters and see my jersey next to those I have admired for so long.”
Guard Caitlin Clark of the Iowa Hawkeyes signs autographs after a game against the Minnesota Gophers at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on December 30, 2023 in Iowa City, Iowa. (Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
In four seasons at Iowa, Clark broke the all-time NCAA scoring record for both male and female players and led the team to the NCAA Championship game twice. She was also named National Player of the Year as a junior and senior.
Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz and notable alumni Henry and Patricia Tippie praised Clark’s contributions in a joint statement.
Guard Caitlin Clark of the Iowa Hawkeyes signs autographs for fans as she leaves the field after a game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on March 3, 2024 in Iowa City, Iowa. (Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
“Caitlin Clark not only redefined excellence on the field, but also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination,” the statement said.
“Her remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the University of Iowa and the world of women’s basketball. The retirement of her number is a testament to her extraordinary contributions and a tribute to her legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Hawkeye fans are excited.” Say thank you for so many incredible moments.
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Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark poses for a photo with Lin Dunn and Christie Sides during their introductory press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 17, 2024 in Indianapolis. (Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
Clark was selected by the Fever with the No. 1 pick in this year’s WNBA Draft after her career at Iowa.
As a WNBA rookie in 2024, Clark set records for the most points and 3-pointers made by a rookie in league history while also becoming the first rookie to record a triple-double, a feat she accomplished twice. Her 337 assists were not only the most by a rookie, they were also the most by any player in a single season.
Clark’s retirement comes just two months after Time Magazine named her Female Athlete of the Year. The decision sparked praise but also criticism from some, including Washington Mystics owner Sheila Johnson I asked myself recently in a CNN interview why Clark was chosen for the honor and not the entire WNBA. Johnson suspected it had to do with Clark’s race.
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