IOWA CITY, Iowa — The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball program has announced that Caitlin Clark’s iconic No. 22 jersey will be retired, ensuring no player will don it again. This special ceremony is slated to take place on February 2 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, as confirmed by the Iowa athletic department on Wednesday.
Caitlin Clark concluded her college career as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I history, encompassing both men’s and women’s basketball. She is recognized as a revolutionary figure in the women’s sports arena. Her dynamic playing style and long-range 3-point shooting captivated fans, resulting in a dedicated following that sported her No. 22 jersey at both home and away games.
“I’m forever proud to be a Hawkeye, and Iowa holds a special place in my heart that is bigger than just basketball,” Clark expressed. “Receiving this honor is incredibly meaningful to me, and I look forward to celebrating it with my family, friends, and alumni. Seeing my jersey hanging in the rafters alongside those I have long admired will be an unforgettable feeling.”
The WNBA Rookie of the Year and the first overall pick in last spring’s draft by the Indiana Fever, Clark is expected to attend the jersey retirement ceremony during the game against Southern California.
“Iowa has been profoundly transformed by Caitlin Clark’s exceptional contributions both on and off the court,” remarked Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz. “Her achievements have left a lasting legacy at the University of Iowa and have inspired a multitude of young athletes to chase their dreams with unwavering determination. The decision to retire her jersey honors her remarkable journey and celebrates a legacy that will undoubtedly motivate future generations. Hawkeye supporters are eager to express their gratitude for the unforgettable moments she has provided.”
Within a span of just 17 days, from February 15 to March 3, Clark not only shattered Kelsey Plum’s record to become the leading scorer in women’s NCAA Division I history, but also surpassed AIAW star Lynette Woodard for the major college scoring record. Moreover, she overtook LSU’s Pete Maravich to hold the title for most career points collectively in Division I history for both men and women.
In her final two years, she led the Hawkeyes to the NCAA championship game and made history as the sole player in NCAA Division I basketball—men’s or women’s—to lead her conference in both scoring and assists for four consecutive seasons.