Caitlin Clark Sets 3-Point Record as Iowa Wins Big Ten Tourney
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Caitlin Clark of the Iowa Hawkeyes set a new record for the most 3-pointers in a season by a Division I player. Clark’s two 3-pointers in the team’s Big Ten tournament quarterfinals victory over Penn State brought her total to 164, surpassing the previous record held by Stephen Curry and Darius McGhee at 162.
This achievement adds to an already impressive season for Clark, who recently surpassed LSU’s Pete Maravich as the all-time leading scorer in Division I women’s basketball. Despite a challenging shooting performance in Friday’s game, Clark’s ability to reach this milestone speaks volumes about her talent and determination.
The game against Penn State was not without its struggles for Clark. She missed 11 attempts from behind the arc before finally making her first 3-pointer with just over eight minutes remaining in the game. However, her perseverance paid off as she held up her arms in mock celebration, drawing a thunderous ovation from the sellout crowd at Target Center.
Reflecting on her performance, Clark admitted to “trolling and messing around” when she made that crucial shot. She emphasized the importance of having fun on the court and not letting missed shots affect her confidence. Her ability to bounce back from a challenging shooting night is a testament to her mental fortitude and resilience.
Despite her shooting woes, Clark still managed to lead the Hawkeyes in scoring, rebounding, and assists. She finished the game with 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, showcasing her versatility and impact on the court. Her teammates also contributed to the victory, shooting a combined 13-of-30 from behind the arc.
Iowa coach Lisa Bluder praised Clark for her handling of the difficult shooting night and expressed her pride in the team’s ability to overcome adversity. Bluder believes that games like these build confidence and strengthen the team’s belief in themselves and each other. With Clark’s leadership and resilience, the Hawkeyes have proven that they can thrive even when their star player faces challenges.
In addition to her record-breaking performance, Clark also tied former Ohio State star Kelsey Mitchell for the most career points scored in the Big Ten tournament, with 265. She will have the opportunity to break that record in the upcoming semifinal against Michigan.
As Clark enters her final season with the Hawkeyes and prepares for the WNBA draft, her impact on women’s college basketball cannot be overstated. Her records and achievements will leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future players to push the boundaries of what is possible on the court.
Saturday’s semifinal against Michigan promises to be another thrilling chapter in Caitlin Clark’s remarkable career. As she continues to make history, fans eagerly await her next record-breaking performance and marvel at her incredible talent.
