What’s better than a homecoming for WNBA stars Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin? How about a homecoming where they not only flash their blingy Big Ten and Final Four rings, but also spend time sprinkling a little magic at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital? Yes, they went from hardcourt heroes to Halloween crafters—and the kids were the real winners!
Clark and Martin, former Iowa Hawkeye standouts turned WNBA rookies, took a break from making defenders cry to spread some cheer with the little warriors at the hospital. Armed with markers and glue sticks instead of basketballs, the duo jumped into Halloween-themed arts and crafts with the kids. Let’s just say, for a couple of pros known for dishing out assists on the court, their assists here were a lot more colorful (and possibly stickier).
The hospital shared some heartwarming—and let’s be honest, downright adorable—snaps of the day on Instagram. Imagine, if you will, two towering basketball stars hunched over tiny craft tables, coloring pumpkins like it’s Game 7 of the WNBA Finals. But hey, what’s a little arts-and-crafts pressure compared to nailing clutch 3-pointers, right?
The Rings That Sparkle Brighter Than Your Wi-Fi
But wait, this wasn’t just a day of artsy vibes. Clark and Martin were also in town to flaunt some serious hardware. The pair were honored for Iowa’s Big Ten Tournament title and back-to-back Final Four runs (because one wasn’t enough, obviously). Cue the glittering, diamond-encrusted, gold-and-silver rings—because why settle for subtle when you can go full championship mode?
Clark and Martin proudly showed off their sparkling new accessories, with Iowa’s athletic department posting pics of the duo doing their best “I’m-a-champion” poses. If you thought their handles were flashy, just wait till you see these rings. The Big Ten one? It’s all gold with the trophy and the phrase “Back to Back to Back,” a not-so-humble reminder that Iowa doesn’t mess around when it comes to hoops. The Final Four ring? Silver, with “Final Four” engraved and the Hawkeyes’ logo front and center, just in case anyone forgot who ran the court.
From Hawkeyes to WNBA Stars: Clark and Martin’s Rookie Years
Clark, who was taken first overall in the WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, is already a superstar, pulling off ridiculous numbers like 31.6 points per game, because apparently, no one told her rookies are supposed to struggle. She snagged the Rookie of the Year award and made First Team All-WNBA, all while breaking records in assists and 3-point shooting. You know, casual.
Kate Martin? Well, she may not have racked up as many points, averaging 2.6 ppg in her debut season with the Las Vegas Aces, but she’s no slouch either. She’s set to take on even bigger challenges when she joins the Unrivaled Basketball League in January. Watch out, world—Martin’s ready to level up.
The Clark vs. Martin WNBA Matchup: More Drama Than a Soap Opera
As if their rookie years weren’t exciting enough, Clark and Martin also got the chance to face each other on the WNBA hardwood. Clark admitted it was a thrill to play against her former Hawkeye bestie, especially for the fans who once cheered them on in college. But come on, let’s be real—having your BFF across the court is fun until she’s guarding you. At least we know no love was lost… until tip-off, anyway.
So, what’s next for these two ballers? Well, Clark’s busy setting new records and collecting more awards, while Martin’s gearing up for more on-court action. But no matter where they go, it’s clear that their hearts are still in Iowa—whether they’re dribbling basketballs or drawing jack-o’-lanterns.
Let’s face it: Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin may be winning on the court, but their biggest win? Putting smiles on those kids’ faces at the hospital. And maybe, just maybe, those sparkly new rings helped a little too.