Caitlin Clark’s legendary Hawkeye career will be remembered for decades to come

The monumental career of Caitlin Clark came to a close Sunday when Iowa lost to South Carolina in the NCAA championship game. The defeat marked the second-straight year the Hawkeyes fell in the title game, but this one hurt a little bit more. This was the end of the road.

Clark’s career is hard to put into words. Her stat line is five miles long and her awards seem too numerous to count. Phenomenal, fantastic, outstanding – no amount of superlatives do her justice. What’s really crazy is that her incredible feats have become commonplace among Hawkeye fans and basketball followers writ large. Clark breaking records felt as normal as the sun rising from the east.

Clark’s impact off the court was just as incredible as it was on it. She grew the women’s game leaps and bounds with her dazzling performances, and millions of young girls from across the country tuned in to see what she’d do next. It’s safe to say her No. 22 jersey will be hanging from the rafters at Carver-Hawkeye Arena as soon as they can get it up there.

It’s true that all good things must come to an end. Many folks wanted to see Clark return in Black and Gold for her final year of eligibility, but that was always a pipedream. She’s ready to bring her game to the professional level and America is ready to watch. She’ll sell out arenas, break TV rating records, and cash three-pointers from 35 feet away there, too.

For Hawkeye fans, it’s indeed strange knowing that it’s all over. For four years No. 22 has been wowing us with shots, passes and wins. While head coach Lisa Bluder will reload to the best of her ability next year, one thing is for certain: There will never be another Caitlin Clark.

As a state, we can be proud that the greatest women’s college player of all time came from Iowa. Clark’s achievements are a testament to what hard work and dedication can do, and her story will resonate with young players for years to come. Though three-pointers may not rain from the logo in Iowa City anymore, the banners, records, wins and memories will remain. Legends never die.

What a wild, fun ride it’s been.