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NBA Player Reveals Caitlin Clark Decision on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Oct 20, 2025 11:40 AM ET

Caitlin Clark has quickly grown into one of the most influential figures in basketball. In just her second WNBA season with the Indiana Fever, she continued to display her elite talent before being sidelined by a groin injury after 13 games. Clark averaged 16.5 points, 5 rebounds and 8.8 assists per game, earning her second consecutive All-Star nod and remaining one of the league’s brightest stars.

Beyond her on-court brilliance, she has redefined how women’s basketball is viewed — driving record viewership, sponsorships and attendance. From her time with the Iowa Hawkeyes to the professional stage, her reach has gone far beyond the WNBA.

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark.Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Clark’s impact stretches across all sports, resonating with players and fans in the NFL, MLB and NBA. She has made several high-profile appearances, including the Super Bowl and NBA Finals, and has been well received by fans.

Her influence was once again on display when an NBA player revealed a personal decision linked directly to the Fever star.

Ahead of Tuesday’s NBA 2025-26 regular season tip-off, the NBA released a video featuring players explaining the stories behind their jersey numbers. In the clip, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Jaylen Clark shared that he wears No. 22 as a tribute to Clark after he couldn’t take 0 because teammate Donte DiVincenzo wanted it.

“I wore 0 and then when Donte came. ... I gave the number to him,” Clark said. “And then I’m like, 'I’m close to Iowa and Caitlin Clark,' so I put 22, … Hopefully, I get some jersey sales.”

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Jaylen Clark, selected 53rd overall in the 2023 NBA Draft out of UCLA, has been recognized for his defensive skill and relentless energy. His decision to honor Caitlin Clark highlights just how much her influence has transcended leagues and gender lines.

Across the globe, Caitlin Clark continues to be a role model thanks to her competitive spirit and cultural impact.

In February, Iowa retired her iconic No. 22 jersey, cementing her status as a generational athlete who inspired millions. Though her 2025 campaign ended early, her play and leadership left a mark that continues to ripple through basketball.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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