In an electrifying showdown at Welsh-Ryan Arena, Iowa’s prodigious guard Caitlin Clark etched her name into the annals of NCAA women’s basketball history by securing the second spot on the all-time scoring list. This monumental achievement came during Iowa’s emphatic win over Northwestern, where Clark’s scoring prowess was on full display.
The game, held on a Wednesday, saw Clark in top form, reaching a pivotal moment with 4:58 remaining in the first half. A successful layup granted her 14 points for the evening, cumulatively elevating her career tally to 3,403 points. This feat propelled her past the former Ohio State star Kelsey Mitchell, who previously held the second spot with 3,402 points. Clark’s ascent in the scoring ranks began earlier in the game when she surpassed Missouri State legend Jackie Stiles, positioning herself third all-time with a three-pointer at the 2:04 mark in the first quarter.
At the pinnacle of women’s college basketball scoring is Kelsey Plum, whose illustrious career at Washington from 2013 to 2017 culminated in a staggering 3,527 points. On the men’s side, the legendary Pete Maravich of LSU remains the beacon of scoring excellence with 3,667 points.
Clark’s remarkable scoring feat also crowned her as the Big Ten Conference’s all-time leading scorer, a testament to her enduring excellence and consistency on the court. Her visit to Northwestern was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, drawing a sellout crowd predominantly donning Iowa’s colors, signifying the significant draw Clark has become in college basketball.
Amidst roaring applause and spirited cheers, Clark was introduced alongside the starting lineup, a moment that underscored the community’s acknowledgment of her exceptional talent and contribution to the sport. The game unfolded as a showcase of Clark’s skill set, with the senior guard delivering a breathtaking performance that included 35 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block.
Iowa’s commanding 110-74 victory over Northwestern not only highlighted Clark’s individual brilliance but also showcased the cohesive strength of the Hawkeyes, who improved their season record to 20-2. This game, emblematic of Clark’s historic achievement and Iowa’s team prowess, will be remembered as a significant chapter in NCAA women’s basketball history, celebrating the remarkable journey of Caitlin Clark and her indelible mark on the sport.