Watch: Iowa's Caitlin Clark disrespects Gamecocks guard during Final Four

Some may see Clark's actions as disrespectful, and it's hard to argue. However, facing the monster that is South Carolina is no easy task and showing no fear of the juggernaut was the first step toward beating them. 

If you're going to be cocky, you better be prepared to back it up, especially on a stage as big as the Final Four. 

Clark held her own in the opening half against South Carolina, tallying 19 points and six assists to help Iowa take a one-point advantage, 38-37, at the halftime break. 

The junior also made Division I history before halftime on Friday. Clark surpassed 1,000 points on the season, becoming only the sixth women's player to accomplish the feat. 

Clark is coming off of a remarkable, history-making performance in Iowa's Elite Eight win over No. 5 Louisville. In a dominating effort, Clark scored 41 points, adding 12 assists and 10 rebounds to post the first triple-double of 30 or more points in an NCAA Tournament game.

With her performance in Friday's win, Clark became the first player in women's tourney history with back-to-back 40-point games.