The U. of Iowa will retire No. 22 basketball star Caitlin Clark at the Feb. 2 ceremony
No Iowa Hawkeyes basketball player will wear Caitlin Clark’s number 22 again.
The number will be retired in a ceremony on Feb. 2 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the Iowa athletic department announced Wednesday.
Clark finished her college career last season as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division 1 history and is widely considered a groundbreaking figure in women’s soccer. The flair of her game and her long-range 3-point shooting created a legion of fans who wore her number 22 jersey at home and away games.
“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. “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.”
Clark, who was drafted No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever last spring and was the WNBA Rookie of the Year, will be in attendance for the number retirement ceremony during the Hawkeyes’ game against Southern California.
“Caitlin Clark not only redefined excellence on the field, but also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination,” said Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz.
“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.
In a 17-day period from February 15 to March 3, Clark broke Kelsey Plum’s record to become the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer, passing AIAW star Lynette Woodard as major college scorer and passing Pete Maravich of the LSU with the most career points in Division 1 history for men and women.
Clark led the Hawkeyes to the NCAA championship game in her final two years and is the only player in Division I men’s or women’s basketball history to lead her conference in points and assists in four consecutive seasons.
