IOWA CITY, Iowa — February 2, 2025, will be remembered as a historic day for Iowa women’s basketball as they not only honored one of their greatest players but also achieved one of their biggest victories. Caitlin Clark's number 22 jersey was retired at Carver-Hawkeye Arena after the Hawkeyes defeated No. 4 USC 76-69. The dual significance of the day highlighted Clark’s monumental influence on the program, having led Iowa to back-to-back national championship games, and established her as the sport's all-time leading scorer with 3,951 career points.
Clark, attending her first game since completing her college career, expressed the emotion of the occasion. "I feel like I already have those butterflies in your stomach when you walk in here. Not so much for a basketball game now, but obviously just to be around everybody and to enjoy this environment," she said prior to the match.
With almost 15,000 fans packing the stands — including notable figures like comedian David Letterman — the atmosphere was electric. During the post-game ceremony, her jersey was ceremoniously hung from the rafters, forever enshrined next to other Iowa legends like Megan Gustafson and Michelle Edwards. Iowa coach Jan Jensen praised Clark's impact, stating, "Caitlin is truly generational. She changed the world.”
The ceremony took place just moments after the final whistle, making it bittersweet for the Hawkeyes. It was a signature victory for Jensen, who is still finding her footing as the team’s new head coach. The event encapsulated the love and admiration the community has for what Clark has contributed to women’s basketball, both at Iowa and beyond.
Reflecting on her time at Iowa, Clark stated, "The positive image you've brought to this basketball program... is unmeasurable," acknowledging the lasting legacy she leaves for future generations. Former Iowa coach Lisa Bluder, who retired last season, reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing, "You showed why it’s wise to invest in women’s sports; it’s not only the right thing to do but the smart thing to do.”
The victory over USC was no small feat; Iowa executed a spirited game plan, leading at one point by as much as 19 points. Iowa guard Lucy Olsen led her team with 28 points, contributing significantly to the win against the Trojans, who had come off of an impressive 15-game winning streak. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb noted, "The magnitude of this day isn’t lost on us... we wanted to honor her and what women's basketball is about.”
Despite the Hawkeyes’ struggles since losing Clark and several key seniors, the team’s performance on this day was promising. They surged out of the gate with an impressive 18-1 start, forcing USC to rally back repeatedly throughout the match. But Iowa matched the Trojans, holding strong as the game progressed.
Watkins, the standout star for USC, reflected on Clark's influence during her brief visit. After the game concluded, USC players and coaches stayed on the court to witness Clark's jersey ceremony, highlighting the respect and admiration shared within the women's basketball community.
Iowa's crowd was filled with fans wearing Clark’s jersey, manifesting the spirit she brought to the program. The energy levels soared throughout the game, punctuated by cheers when Clark’s presence was acknowledged. Clark herself became animated watching her teammates play and cheered vigorously from the stands.
"The energy from everybody, it was electrifying," said JuJu Watkins, who led USC with 27 points but could not push her team over the top. Clark's ability to draw crowds and attention to women’s basketball has been unparalleled, and her legacy, cemented on this day, will be felt for years to come.
On May 4, Clark is set to return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena with her WNBA team, the Indiana Fever, for an exhibition against the Brazilian national team. The anticipation surrounding this event coupled with her legacy made for a memorable celebration for everyone involved.
The remarkable atmosphere at Carver-Hawkeye, the fans' unwavering support, and the powerful sense of community were all evidence of the lasting impact Caitlin Clark has had — and will continue to have — on women's sports at Iowa and nationwide. From one generation to the next, Clark's contributions go well beyond basketball and will inspire countless young athletes for years to come.