The Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team announced on February 2 that Caitlin Clark's jersey will be retired.
Clark's No. 22 jersey, which he wore with the Indiana Fever, will be hung from the rafters at Carver-Hawkeye Arena after a ceremony honoring the program's most accomplished players.
Clark is also expected to attend, and the event will be broadcast on FOX.
“I am forever proud to be a Hawkeye. Iowa holds a special place in my heart, even more than basketball,” Clark said. In the announcement.
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“It means so much to me to receive this honor and celebrate with my family, friends, and alumni. I look up from the rafters and see my jersey next to the players I've admired for so long. It'll feel great.''
Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark 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 the University of Iowa, Clark broke NCAA all-time scoring records for both men and women and led the team to the NCAA Championship Game twice. She was also named All-American Player of the Year as a junior and senior.
Iowa State Athletic Director Beth Goetz and notable alumni Henry and Patricia Tippy praised Clark's contributions in a joint statement.
WNBA star Caitlin Clark named Time Athlete of the Year after historic season: 'We've only scratched the surface'
Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark signs autographs for fans as she leaves the court 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 court, she also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination,” the statement said.
“Her remarkable accomplishments left an indelible mark on the University of Iowa and the world of women's basketball. Retiring her jersey number is a testament to her extraordinary contributions and a legacy for future generations. Hawkeye fans are eager to honor her legacy as she continues to be an inspiration.''Thank you for all the great moments.'' ”
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Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever poses for a photo with Lin Dunn, Christy Sides and others during the inaugural press conference at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on April 17, 2024. (Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
Clark was selected by the Fever with the first pick in this year's WNBA Draft after his career at Iowa State.
As a WNBA rookie in 2024, Clark set records for most points and 3-pointers by a rookie in league history, as well as becoming the first rookie to record a triple-double, a feat he accomplished twice. Her 337 assists were not only the most by a rookie, but the most ever by a player in a single season.
Clark's jersey retirement comes just two months after Time magazine named her Athlete of the Year. The decision drew praise, but also criticism from some, including Washington Mystics owner Sheila Johnson. In a recent interview with CNN, he wondered why Clark was chosen for that honor and not the entire WNBA. Johnson suggested it had something to do with Clark's race.
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