Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball player Caitlin Clark will not wear No. 22 again.
The number will be retired during a Feb. 2 ceremony at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the Iowa athletic department announced Wednesday.
Clark finished her college career last season as the all-time leading scorer for men or women in NCAA Division 1 history and is widely regarded as a transformative figure in the women's game. Her flair for the game and long range 3-point shots spawned a legion of fans decked out in her No. 22 jersey at games both home and away.
“I will forever be proud to be a Hawkeye and Iowa holds a special place in my heart that is more than just basketball,” Clark said. “It means the world to me to receive this honor and celebrate it with my family , my friends and alumni. It will be a real feeling to look up in the rafters and see my jersey with those I have loved 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 at the Hawkeyes' game against Southern California.
“Caitlin Clark has not only redefined excellence on the court but 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. Releasing her number is a testament to her dedication and a celebration of her legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Hawkeye fans really want to say thank you for so many wonderful 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, passed AIAW star Lynette Woodard for the all-time college scoring record and passed on 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 seasons after each other.
