Iowa Caitlin Clark Breaks NCAA Scoring Record; Travis Scott Vibing At Courtside
In a historic performance during her last regular-season home game on Sunday, humorously dubbed "Ponytail Pete," Iowa Caitlin Clark breaks NCAA scoring record. Plus Travis Scott's presence, vibing courtside!
Author:Hajra ShannonReviewer:Paula M. GrahamMar 05, 20249 Shares9.4K Views
In a historic performance during her last regular-season home game on Sunday, humorously dubbed "Ponytail Pete," Iowa Caitlin Clark breaks NCAA scoring record.
The star player for the University of Iowa's women's basketball team surpassed the legendary Pete Maravich's all-time scoring record during her final regular-season home game. This achievement not only marks a personal milestone for Clark but also solidifies her legacy in the annals of collegiate basketball.
A Record-Breaking Performance
Sunday's game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena was not just another contest; it was a momentous occasion for the Hawkeyes and their supporters. Clark needed 18 points to surpass Maravich's long-standing record of 3,667 points, a feat accomplished during his three seasons at LSU from 1967 to 1970. Remarkably, Clark achieved this in the first half, capping the game with an impressive 35 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds in Iowa's 93-83 victory over No. 2 Ohio State.
The win not only ended the 15-game winning streak of the Buckeyes but also served as redemption for Iowa's earlier overtime loss at Ohio State in January. With this triumph, Clark's career points total stands at an astonishing 3,685, underscoring her exceptional scoring prowess.
"It's really crazy to think about," Clark remarked, reflecting on her accomplishment. "Honestly, if you would have told me that before my college career started, I would've laughed in your face and been like, 'No, you're insane.'"
The Unlikely Free Throw Record
Clark's journey to the scoring record took an unexpected turn during the first half. After missing a 3-pointer just before halftime, fate intervened. Iowa's Hannah Stuelke was fouled by Ohio State's Madison Greene, and a technical foul was called on Cotie McMahon. Clark, with 0.3 seconds left, stepped up to the free-throw line needing both shots to reach the required 18 points. She coolly sank both free throws, not only breaking Maravich's record but also giving Iowa a 48-39 lead at halftime.
Iowa coach Lisa Bluder commended Clark's free-throw proficiency, stating, "Those free throws are important, and she's very, very good [there]. Go back to fundamentals, everybody, right? I'm kind of glad it wasn't a logo 3."
A Season of Records and Achievements
Caitlin Clark's senior season has been nothing short of extraordinary. She made headlines on December 6 by reaching the 3,000-point mark at Iowa State. Later, on February 11, at Nebraska, she achieved the remarkable feat of 1,000 career assists, making her the first Division I women's player with both 3,000 points and 1,000 assists.
The record-setting continued on February 15 in Iowa City when Clark surpassed Washington's Kelsey Plum for the NCAA women's scoring record with a 49-point performance, simultaneously setting Iowa's single-game scoring record. On February 28 at Minnesota, she surpassed Kansas' Lynette Woodard for the major-college women's scoring record in another stellar performance that included her 17th career triple-double.
Clark's accomplishments extend beyond points, with records for 3-pointers in a season (156) and the most triple-doubles with at least 30 points in Division I history.
Travis Scott's Courtside Presence
Adding to the spectacle of this historic game was the presence of rapper Travis Scott. The music superstar was not merely a spectator but an active participant in the celebration. Scott, visibly engaged in the action, took to the court post-game, posing for photos with the triumphant Iowa team.
In a video posted by NBC Sports on X, Scott expressed his appreciation for Caitlin Clark and the Iowa basketball team, stating, "We're out here to come see CC handle business tonight... This Iowa energy is like no other. I think they need to bottle this energy and bring it around the world."
Looking Ahead
As Clark prepares to enter the 2024 WNBA draft, her decision not to utilize the COVID-19 waiver for a fifth season at Iowa adds a poignant touch to her senior day celebration. The Hawkeyes, buoyed by Clark's leadership, have their eyes set on larger goals, aiming for success in the upcoming Big Ten tournament.
Despite the numerous accolades and records, Clark remains grounded, emphasizing team objectives over personal achievements. The day's events included a bittersweet note with a first-half knee injury to starting guard Molly Davis, adding an element of uncertainty to the team's future.
Hajra Shannon
Author
Paula M. Graham
Reviewer
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