Before Caitlin Clark became a WNBA rookie phenom, torching scoreboards and defenders alike, she was the name in Iowa college basketball. Now, Iowa is set to give its all-time leading bucket-getter the ultimate “we love you forever” treatment—retiring her iconic No. 22 jersey. And because drama is always better with an audience, rising USC star JuJu Watkins will be courtside to witness this history unfold on February 2.
Yes, folks, it’s official: Caitlin Clark is entering Iowa basketball Valhalla, where legends live forever, even if they don’t bring home a championship trophy. (No shade, but some.)
From Hawkeye Heroine to the GOAT Club
Let’s rewind. During her four years in Iowa City, Clark didn’t just play basketball—she orchestrated a one-woman symphony of chaos and record-breaking. By the time she graduated, she was sitting on an Everest of achievements: 3,951 career points (no, that’s not a typo), an average of 28.4 points per game, and the rare feat of holding scoring records for both men’s and women’s college hoops.
Oh, and she nearly brought Iowa a national championship. Nearly. Unfortunately, legendary coach Dawn Staley and South Carolina had other plans, snatching the 2024 NCAA title in a showdown that had Twitter melting faster than an ice cream cone in July.
JuJu Watkins, Welcome to the Party
The jersey retirement ceremony isn’t just a moment for Clark—it’s a stage for JuJu Watkins to get a front-row seat to greatness. Imagine being a star-in-the-making and watching someone who’s already set the gold standard have their jersey retired. You’re either inspired or deeply intimidated. Either way, JuJu’s in for a treat—and maybe a little preview of her future?
Teammates, TikToks, and Throwbacks
When Iowa broke the news with a sentimental video worthy of an Oscar nod, reactions poured in. Among them was former teammate Gabbie Marshall, who took a moment from her budding social media and podcasting empire to re-share the announcement on Instagram.
For those who missed the “Clark and Marshall Show” during their Iowa days, here’s a refresher: Marshall averaged a modest 6.6 points but played the role of Clark’s sidekick to perfection. Now, she’s pivoted to influencing and podcasting, proving that there’s life after basketball—even if your former teammate is busy breaking ankles and records in the WNBA.
A Star-Studded Showdown
As the ceremony draws closer, speculation is already swirling about who’ll be in attendance. Iowa football games have been reunion hotspots for Clark, Marshall, and Kate Martin (another Iowa alum turned WNBA pro), so expect the whole squad to show up. And don’t be surprised if the guest list includes a few WNBA stars, NCAA legends, and maybe even a celebrity or two. (Paging Sue Bird and Megan Thee Stallion—are your calendars free?)
Caitlin Clark’s jersey retirement isn’t just a celebration of her legacy; it’s a reminder that sometimes, you don’t need a championship ring to secure your spot in the pantheon of greatness. All you need is talent, tenacity, and a No. 22 jersey that’s now officially off-limits.
February 2 can’t come soon enough—just make sure you’re not the one stuck in the nosebleeds.
Now, Iowa fans, mark your calendars, and maybe start lining up for tickets. With JuJu in town and Clark in the spotlight, this one’s shaping up to be a showstopper.
