Caitlin Clark, the basketball sensation who transitioned to the WNBA in 2024, continues to maintain a deep connection with her college roots at the University of Iowa. Known for her record-breaking career as the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer with 3,951 points, Clark’s legacy at Iowa lives on. Despite her success in the WNBA, including earning the Rookie of the Year award in 2024, she never misses a chance to stay engaged with her former team. Her recent reaction to a thrilling game against Drake highlights this bond.
During Iowa’s dominant 42-point win over Drake, assistant coach Abby Emmert Stamp shared a clip of the team’s celebration on Twitter, captioned, “THIS IS WHAT I LIVE FOR.” Caitlin Clark, ever the supportive alumna, replied with a heartfelt message: “Saw ur reaction live, was pretty awesome.” The moment Clark referred to occurred in the third quarter when Kylie Feuerbach nailed a 3-point jump shot from 24 feet out after a pass from Taylor McCabe. The shot brought Iowa’s bench to life, with players and coaches, including Stamp, visibly ecstatic. Clark’s comment showcases her continued enthusiasm for her former team’s success.
Clark’s relationship with Abby Emmert Stamp goes beyond casual support. Stamp played a crucial role in Clark’s development during her college years. As Iowa’s official site describes, Stamp “coached Caitlin Clark to National Co-Freshman of the Year.” This mentorship left a lasting impression on Clark, who still holds Stamp in high regard. Stamp’s bold coaching style, characterized by statements like “You’re gonna need her” during pivotal moments, has clearly resonated with Clark and shaped her journey.
But Caitlin Clark’s connection to Iowa isn’t limited to her bond with Stamp. She remains deeply invested in the program as a whole. In 2024, when her former coach Lisa Bluder retired, Clark expressed her admiration by saying, “Simply no one better.” And in May 2025, she sent a heartfelt message to Iowa fans following a preseason game in Iowa City. Her dedication even extends to rearranging her schedule to catch games. When Iowa’s game time was changed, Clark commented, “Will rearrange my calendar.”
Caitlin Clark’s heartfelt connection with her alma mater
Clark’s legacy at Iowa is not just remembered but celebrated by current players. In a recent game against Evansville, where Iowa set a program record with a 119-43 win, sophomore forward Jada Gyamfi paid tribute to Clark. After hitting a three-pointer, Gyamfi mimicked Clark’s iconic celebration-raising both hands with three fingers up and sticking her tongue out. The moment was so memorable that Iowa’s official Instagram account shared it with pride. True to form, Clark noticed and responded on Instagram, writing, “awesome celly brother,” while tagging Gyamfi.
Caitlin Clark’s impact on Iowa basketball is undeniable. Her accolades include being a four-time first-team USBWA selection, three-time unanimous first-team All-American, two-time Naismith College Player of the Year, and two-time AP Player of the Year. Her style and signature moves continue to inspire players like Gyamfi and resonate with fans. Whether it’s through emotional messages or playful banter online, Clark proves that her relationship with Iowa is not over-it’s evolving.
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