Caitlin Clark’s Most Inspiring Performance: 3 Things To Know
Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes are headed back to the women’s Final Four. Or, as Clark might say, “the Iowa Hawkeyes are headed back to the Final Four.” That’s because Clark’s most inspiring performance of her historic collegiate career came last night in a thrilling win over LSU, and it showed the star to be a true team player.
“This time it’s Iowa,” announcer Ryan Ruocco said as the game clock ticked down. Las year, LSU defeated Iowa in the national championship.
However, Albany last night served as the biggest stage women’s college basketball has seen in a long time. One could argue it was one of the sports’ biggest games ever. Of course, it included LSU star Angel Reese. So, all eyes were on the game’s biggest stars, and in the moment, wow, did Clark deliver!
Why This Was Caitlin Clark’s Most Inspiring Performance
Though there was never any doubt that Clark would play well and hit some of her signature logo three-pointers, fans wondered, “Would it be enough?” Well, even LSU head coach Kim Mulkey was impressed. “Girl, you’re something else. I’ve never seen anything like it,” Mulkey said in her postgame press conference.
Here are three points that led to that.
Poise
Clark kept receipts. However, she didn’t talk about it, she just quietly kept receipts. There was a funny moment in the broadcast where ESPN mentioned that Clark’s family was in the stands. Then, Ruocco mentioned Clark telling her parents and brothers, that they are on their own finding something to do in Albany prior to the game, she was staying in her room and staying focused.
On the court, Clark had the eye of the tiger. It was Michael Jordan-esque: once challenged in an incredibly high-pressure and high-stakes game, the player was incredibly focused and 100% present in the moment.
Assists
Clark’s nine three-pointers last night tied the record, but her 12 assists broke the record. Clark had a game-high 41 points. She also had 140 total assists, which broke the record for most all-time in the NCAA tournament.
These 12 assists were not just a pass where a teammate made an easy shot. They were crisp and fierce. All fit into a category of, “Oh, what a great pass.” Clark elevated her teammates and put them in a position to be successful. As a result, guards Kate Martin and Sydney Affolter had 21 and 16 points respectively.
Ripple Effect
Official Clark #22 jerseys are sold out on Nike. Her t-shirts are only available in large sizes at Dicks Sporting Goods. Clark has not only inspired younger generations and been great for the sport of women’s basketball; she has inspired a sports nation.
Even the best players don’t always deliver their best performance in the most important moments. Right now with Clark, we’re witnessing greatness, and that is inspiring everyone. Clark has become one of the most popular celebrities in sports since last year’s championship game. With NIL offers, commercials, and sometimes unwanted spotlight, that can be very challenging to handle and yet still play your game well.
Now, Iowa makes the trip to Cleveland for the 2024 Final Four. On Friday evening, they will tip off against UConn. Clark was interviewed by ESPN’s Holly Rowe right as the game ended last night. Upon praising her team’s effort to come out on top, she had three parting words before joining her teammates to cut down the nets.
“Jobs not finished,” Clark said.
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