Caitlin Clark’s Jersey Retirement: A Night to Remember in Hawkeye History

From Hawkeye Hero to Immortal: The Night Caitlin Clark’s No. 22 Soars

by: D’Joumbarey A. Moreau

A Night for the Ages: Caitlin Clark & the No. 22 Jersey That Shaped a Legacy

Caitlin Clark’s name is synonymous with greatness, and now her legendary No. 22 jersey is set to take its rightful place in the rafters of Carver-Hawkeye Arena. On February 2, during Iowa’s matchup against USC, the Hawkeyes will honor their most iconic player in a ceremony bound to be as unforgettable as her record-breaking career.

From the Court to the Rafters: Caitlin Clark’s Next-Level Legacy

Clark, who will be in attendance for the ceremony, expressed her deep connection to Iowa:

“I’m forever proud to be a Hawkeye, and Iowa holds a special place in my heart that is bigger than just basketball. It means the world to me to receive this honor and to celebrate it with my family, friends, and alumni. It will be a great feeling to look up in the rafters and see my jersey alongside those that I’ve admired for so long.”

It’s not just a jersey retirement—it’s a tribute to a career that has redefined the standards of excellence in college basketball.

Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers: Clark’s Road to Immortality

Clark’s résumé is nothing short of legendary. She finished her college career as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball—men’s and women’s—with a jaw-dropping 3,951 points. Along the way, she:

•Surpassed Washington’s Kelsey Plum to become the women’s NCAA scoring leader.

•Broke Lynette Woodard’s major college women’s record.

•Topped Pete Maravich’s Division I men’s scoring record.

But her dominance wasn’t just about numbers. Clark led Iowa to back-to-back national championship games and claimed three Big Ten tournament titles, all while earning back-to-back consensus National Player of the Year honors in her junior and senior seasons.

Caitlin Clark: Hawkeye Forever, NBA Rookie of the Year Always

Clark’s journey didn’t end when she left Iowa City. Selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, she made an immediate impact. Clark was named WNBA Rookie of the Year, leading the Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016.

Her professional success has only amplified her already immense legacy, but for Hawkeye fans, her heart will always beat in black and gold.

Clark’s Legacy is Now Officially Immortalized

Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz put it best:

“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. Retiring her number is a testament to her extraordinary contributions and a celebration of her legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.”

For a program that has already sold out every home game this season, this ceremony will be the crown jewel of an already electric basketball environment.

The Final Buzzer: Caitlin Clark’s No. 22 is Here to Stay

As February 2 approaches, the excitement builds for what promises to be a historic night for Iowa basketball. Caitlin Clark’s No. 22 jersey isn’t just being retired—it’s being immortalized as a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and passion for the game.

Get ready, Hawkeye fans. History is about to be made—again.