U. of Iowa to retire basketball star Caitlin Clark's No. 22 in Feb. 2 ceremony

No Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball player will wear Caitlin Clark's No. 22 again.

The number will be retired in a ceremony Feb. 2 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the Iowa athletic department announced Wednesday.

Clark finished her collegiate career last season as the all-time leading scorer, male or female, in NCAA Division 1 history and is widely regarded as a transformative figure in the women's game. His style of play and long-range 3-point shooting generated a legion of fans decked out in his No. 22 jersey at both home and away games.

"I am forever proud to be a Hawkeye and Iowa holds a special place in my heart that is bigger than basketball," Clark said. "It means the world to me to receive this honor and to celebrate with my family, friends and alumni. It will be a great feeling to look up and see my jersey next to those I have looked up to for so long."

Clark, who was drafted No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever last spring and was the WNBA Rookie of the Year, will attend the number retirement ceremony during the Hawkeyes' game against Southern California .

"Caitlin Clark has not only redefined excellence on the court, but she has also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and determination," said Iowa Athletic Director Beth Goetz.

"Her remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the University of Iowa and the world of women's basketball. The retirement of her number is a testament to her extraordinary contributions and a celebration of her legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. The Hawkeye fans can't wait to say thank you for so many amazing moments."

In a 17-day span from February 15 to March 3, Clark broke Kelsey Plum's record to become the all-time NCAA Division I women's scoring leader, surpassed the star of AIAW Lynette Woodard for the college scoring record and passed LSU's Pete Maravich for most. career points in Division 1 history for men and women.

Clark led the Hawkeyes to the NCAA championship game in her final two years and is the only player in Division I men's or women's basketball history to lead her conference in scoring and assists in four consecutive seasons .



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