Caitlin Clark Breaks NCAA Record for Most 3-Pointers in a Season
Caitlin Clark, the star player for the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team, has once again made history in the NCAA. She has now become the all-time leader for 3-point field goals made in a single NCAA season, surpassing the previous record of 162 held by Stephen Curry and Darius McGhee. Clark achieved this feat during Iowa’s Big Ten tournament quarterfinal matchup against Penn State.
Despite having an off night shooting-wise, Clark managed to break the record in the fourth quarter of the game. She finished the game with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, although she struggled with her shooting, going 5-of-19 from the field and 2-of-14 from beyond the arc. It was evident that the Nittany Lions’ defense had done their homework on Clark, making it difficult for her to find her rhythm.
The record-breaking shot came with eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, and Clark’s relief was palpable as she raised her hands in celebration. This achievement is just one of many for Clark this season, as her exceptional play has garnered attention and increased viewership and attendance at women’s basketball games. In fact, the women’s Big Ten Tournament at the Target Center in Minneapolis was sold out for the first time in its history, with over 109,000 fans purchasing tickets for the five-day event.
The impact that Clark has had on the game is often referred to as “The Clark Effect.” Her talent and skill have drawn comparisons to NBA superstar Stephen Curry, who himself experienced a surge in popularity during his college days at Davidson. When asked about Clark’s stardom, Curry acknowledged how much things have changed since his own college career, with social media playing a significant role in amplifying athletes’ fame.
The excitement surrounding Clark was evident during the game, with chants of “Caitlin Clark, Caitlin Clark, Caitlin Clark” echoing throughout the arena. Fans had been eagerly awaiting this moment, lining up for hours before the game to secure their seats. The atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that Clark’s impact on the game extended far beyond her performance on the court.
As the Big Ten Tournament is a single-elimination event, there is a possibility that Friday’s game could be Clark’s last conference game in her collegiate career. However, with the Hawkeyes dominating the first half and holding a comfortable lead, there was little concern about an early exit. Clark’s focus now shifts to leading her team to victory in the tournament and potentially making a deep run in March Madness.
After her college career comes to an end, Clark has already announced her intention to enter the WNBA. Her decision to forgo her fifth year at Iowa was met with excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead in her professional career. Clark has already made headlines earlier this month when she scored 35 points in Iowa’s win over Ohio State, breaking Pete Maravich’s all-time NCAA scoring record in her final regular-season college game.
Clark’s impact on the NCAA goes beyond individual records. Last year, she set records for most 3-pointers in a single tournament and most 3-pointers made in a national championship game. Her ability to perform on the biggest stage has elevated her status as one of the most exciting players in women’s college basketball.
With Selection Sunday approaching, Clark and the Hawkeyes have their sights set on returning to the NCAA title game. But first, they aim to win the Big Ten tournament, with the semifinals and championship game still to come. The journey continues for Caitlin Clark as she looks to leave an indelible mark on the game of basketball.