The Iowa Hawkeyes Caitlin Clark was the number-one pick drafted to the Indiana Fever on April 15, 2024. For those who have just tuned into the Clark watch party, the six-foot guard’s magical collegiate run was actualized by breaking records and, more importantly, changing lives with her joyful and selfless court presence.
Clark’s contribution to women’s basketball surpassed getting buckets and assists towards a higher calling of evolving into a beacon of resilience and empowerment. Her achievements crossed over into other categories including inspiring female leaders in ministry. A committed fan of Clark and a retired star student-athlete herself, Reverend Kristin Brouwer applauds her confidence.
“One of the things that Clark inspires in women’s leadership is her unapologetic self. As a woman in ministry, it is encouraging and empowering to see her interrupt the deep-rooted gender bias in sports,” Brouwer said, “Caitlin Clark is unabashed about who she is, what she is worth, and the gifts she has been given.”
The two-time national runner-up of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament championship is regularly witnessed and filmed signing jerseys of little girls and boys alongside parents who stand in awe. Clark’s parents and brothers are included in this dedicated fan club.
Northwestern College’s own women’s basketball team recognizes how Clark has changed the game for men and women.
“I would say that we were all just grateful to play college athletics during a time where women’s sports have started to gain attention. Therefore, Clark has more or less just been an inspiration for us as individuals— reminding us that we can do anything we set our minds to!” said Molly Schany senior women’s basketball forward.
The state of Iowa now looks brighter on the map. Living rooms are fuller. Gyms have a spark to them. The landscape of women’s basketball— perhaps, even the entirely of women’s sports as Dr. Jim Mead says— has been re-imagined by one unstoppable, humble individual and her committed teammates.
“In America, women still face continued challenges. Clark has been a face of change, giving hope and inspiration to young girls and women of all ages. She has been a catalyst of advancement for women’s equality, not just for the respect she has brought to women’s basketball but also for the respect she has brought to women,” said Brouwer.
In keeping up with her rapid pace of competing, number 22 first WNBA game is May 3, 2024, against the Dallas Wings.
