What happens when you mix the Iowa Hawkeyes’ most iconic basketball stars, championship rings, and a packed stadium of football fans? Pure magic—and maybe a little sarcasm from Iowa’s own basketball legend.
In what can only be described as the ultimate homecoming moment, Hawkeye superstars returned to Kinnick Stadium on Saturday to be honored for their stellar 2023-24 season. Let’s be real, Iowa football was cool and all, but when Caitlin Clark and her Final Four crew took to the field during a timeout, the crowd’s excitement hit another level.
Clark, fresh off an epic rookie season in the WNBA, wasn’t just there for the applause—though there was plenty of that. She was joined by former teammates Gabbie Marshall, Kate Martin, and other members of that Hawkeye squad who spent all last season breaking records and hearts (of opposing teams). Iowa honored their women’s basketball team for reaching the NCAA Final Four and snagging that sweet Big Ten Tournament title.
And yes, there were rings. Lots of shiny, glistening rings.
As the team was announced, Kinnick Stadium erupted in applause. And in case you missed the moment, Iowa basketball’s Instagram made sure to bless your feed with a video that had all the feels. “The Best Tradition,” read the caption. I mean, who needs a football game when you’ve got these legends back on campus?
But of course, no homecoming moment is complete without some banter. Clark, always ready to serve up some witty commentary, was asked about her experience playing against her former teammate Martin in the WNBA. Her response? Classic. “Well, minus the four times I lost to Kate, pretty good,” she joked. Yeah, let’s just say Clark doesn’t take too kindly to losing—even if it’s to her best friend.
Last season’s Hawkeye squad was a juggernaut, dropping just five games en route to a Final Four appearance that had the entire state of Iowa buzzing. Led by Clark’s 34-point, 12-assist performance in the Big Ten championship game, they took home the conference title in style. And their NCAA Tournament run? Nothing short of legendary. Wins over Colorado, UConn, and Angel Reese’s LSU paved the way to the championship game, though their dreams were dashed by a dominant South Carolina team. Still, it was a season to remember.
Now, with former head coach Lisa Bluder retired and Jan Jensen taking the reins, the Hawkeyes will enter the new season with a fresh look. But let’s be honest, no matter who’s coaching or playing, the legacy left behind by this Final Four crew will be a tough act to follow.
Oh, and just when you thought Clark was done dominating the weekend, she made a pit stop at Iowa’s practice facility to get in some time with the current team. Naturally, she jumped right into the action, celebrating after a great play and reminding everyone that even though she’s gone pro, her heart still bleeds black and gold.
As if things weren’t emotional enough, the returning players were also presented with their well-earned rings for both the Big Ten Tournament victory and their Final Four appearance. You know, just in case anyone forgot how great they were.
So, while Iowa football might’ve been the main event on paper, let’s face it—this weekend was all about those basketball legends. Welcome home, champs.
