After setting records at Iowa over four seasons, Caitlin Clark announced on Thursday that she will enter the upcoming WNBA Draft, choosing not to return for a fifth year with the Hawkeyes.
Clark’s decision had been anticipated as she broke scoring records in women’s NCAA Division I and major college women’s basketball. She made the announcement just days before Iowa’s final regular-season home game against No. 2 Ohio State.
In a social media post on Thursday, Clark mentioned that there are still more goals to achieve this season. However, she has positioned herself to be the top pick for the Indiana Fever in the April draft, making her professional debut one of the most anticipated in WNBA history.
Since her debut with the Hawkeyes in 2020, Clark has made a significant impact. With her offensive brilliance, she became the only player in NCAA history to achieve a 40-point triple-double and record over 3,000 points, 750 rebounds, and 750 assists. Clark has also set records for single-game scoring and career points at Iowa, leading her team to two conference tournament championships and their first Final Four appearance since 1993.
Clark expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported her at Iowa, including teammates, coaches, fans, and family. Her presence on the court has led to record attendance at games and high television ratings, elevating the profile of women’s basketball.
With the Fever holding the No. 1 pick in the draft, Clark’s addition to the roster alongside Aliyah Boston is expected to boost Indiana’s chances for a postseason appearance and end their playoff drought. Fans are already showing interest in season tickets following the news of Clark’s decision.
Clark’s partnership with major brands like Gatorade, Nike, and State Farm, coupled with her on-court success, is poised to benefit the WNBA and continue the league’s growth in viewership and popularity.
Becky Hammon, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and coach of the Las Vegas Aces, described Clark as a generational talent whose game will have a significant impact on women’s basketball.
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