Breaking!!! few minutes ago, No. 1 Former iowa hawkeyes women basketball player announces commitment to iowa hawkeyes again over top programs Tennessee, LSU, and Texas Tech, surprising many in the….

 

In a heartwarming and unexpected development, Caitlin Clark, the former Iowa Hawkeyes superstar and current Indiana Fever guard, made a triumphant return to her alma mater

, choosing to play a preseason game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena over opportunities with top programs like Tennessee, LSU, and Texas Tech. This decision has sent ripples through the basketball community, reigniting the passion of Hawkeyes fans and showcasing Clark’s enduring connection to Iowa.

 

Clark’s return was marked by a spectacular performance in the Indiana Fever’s 108–44 exhibition victory over the Brazilian National Team. She dazzled the sold-out crowd with her signature long-range shooting, including an incredible 36-foot three-pointer from the logo—a nod to her collegiate days and a testament to her unmatched shooting prowess .

 

The atmosphere at Carver-Hawkeye Arena was electric, with fans filling the stands to capacity and ticket prices averaging around $670—the highest for a women’s basketball game since 2015 . Clark’s presence reignited the “Clark Effect,” demonstrating her unparalleled ability to draw crowds and elevate the profile of women’s basketball.

 

During her time at Iowa, Clark became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, amassing 3,951 points and earning numerous accolades, including two Naismith and Wooden Awards . Her decision to return, even for a single game, underscores her deep-rooted loyalty to the Hawkeyes and her desire to give back to the community that supported her rise to stardom.

 

Clark’s return also serves as a beacon of inspiration for current and future Iowa players. Her presence on the court, even briefly, offers invaluable experience and motivation for the team as they navigate the post-Clark era. The Hawkeyes have been proactive in rebuilding, adding top talent like Villanova transfer Lucy Olsen to maintain their competitive edge .

 

In a statement, Clark expressed her gratitude: “Returning to Iowa feels like coming home. The support from the fans, coaches, and teammates has always been incredible. I’m honored to wear the Hawkeyes jersey again, even if just for a moment.”

 

As the basketball world celebrates Clark’s return, it’s clear that her impact transcends statistics. She embodies the spirit of dedication, community, and excellence—a true ambassador for the sport.