Women’s basketball legend Sue Bird has nothing but love and admiration for Caitlin Clark even though she fell short in winning the national championship with the Iowa Hawkeyes.
While all the debate heading to the game was about whether or not Clark needs a title to be in the GOAT conversation, Bird basically refuted those talks and gave Clark her well-deserved recognition.
Sue Bird’s Powerful Message for Iowa Hawkeyes Star Caitlin Clark
After the Hawkeyes’ 87-75 loss to the Gamecocks, Bird took to X (formerly Twitter) to give Clark and Iowa their flowers. While all the focus has been on South Carolina as they completed their perfect season, the Seattle Storm legend made sure to not forget the fallen competitors.
Bird highlighted how much Clark has done for the game, and she shared her excitement about what’s next for the sharpshooter now that her Iowa career has come to an end.
The WNBA great also shared that Clark undoubtedly had one of the greatest collegiate careers ever, and ring or not, no one can take that away from her. She left a lasting legacy that will forever be remembered in college hoops, and one that will always be talked about when discussing the best players to ever suit up in the NCAA Tournament.
“What a season [Iowa] and what a career [Caitlin Clark]. We undoubtedly watched one of the all time best college careers….ring or not. Thank you for helping elevate our sport with your play, your poise, and of course your logo 3’s! I can’t wait to watch you at the next level!” Bird exclaimed.
The multi-time Olympic gold medalist certainly couldn’t have said it any better. And it sure means a lot to see her make that statement.
Clark may have not won a national title, but she changed the game forever and brought it to the forefront. That alone is a massive achievement, especially since many have tried to shoulder being the face of the sport but failed time and time again.
It’s Not Only Sue Bird Who Praised Caitlin Clark
For what it’s worth, several other greats showed their admiration for Caitlin Clark. One of those is Magic Johnson, with the NBA legend calling the Iowa Hawkeyes guard the “catalyst for growing women’s basketball.”
“Caitlin Clark’s extraordinary play this season has been the catalyst for growing women’s basketball, with record-breaking viewership throughout the tournament. She deserves her flowers and I want to congratulate her on an incredible collegiate career!” Johnson added.
Clark’s impact cannot be overlooked. And while she’s moving on, expectations remain that she’ll continue to be the face of women’s basketball in general.
With what she showed throughout her Iowa career, there’s no doubt that she’s more than capable of wearing that crown.
More must-reads: