Caitlin Clark. Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Former College Basketball Coach Reveals True Story Behind Losing Caitlin Clark's Commitment

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated Jan 16, 2025 6:30 AM ET

Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish women's basketball head coach Muffet McGraw recently shed light on her recruiting attempt for Caitlin Clark and the playmaker's change of heart that altered their paths.

While Clark is currently making waves in the WNBA with the Indiana Fever, McGraw recalled the pivotal decision that saw Clark choose Iowa over Notre Dame during her college basketball recruitment.

Speaking on the “Good Game With Sarah Spain” podcast, McGraw shared that Clark initially gave a verbal commitment to Notre Dame but described it as a “soft commitment.”

“She couldn’t decide but eventually said, ‘I made the decision,’” McGraw recalled.

Despite this, Clark later chose to stay close to home by committing to Iowa, a decision McGraw learned of directly from the star herself.

McGraw, who retired shortly after Clark’s decision, reflected on the star’s impact on her own career.

“I may still be coaching if Caitlin Clark came to Notre Dame,” she joked, emphasizing the significance of Clark and her ability to transform programs.

Clark, who grew up in Iowa, explained her thought process during her recruitment. In a separate interview, she shared that her connection to the Midwest and her family influenced her choice.

“I wanted to stay fairly close to home,” Clark told ESPN, adding that she had a gut feeling Iowa was the right fit.

At Iowa, Clark’s collegiate career flourished. She shattered records, led the Hawkeyes to two consecutive national championship appearances and became the No. 1 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft.

Clark’s professional success continued with a Rookie of the Year title and All-Star recognition in the WNBA

Reflecting on Clark’s decision, McGraw praised her character and acknowledged Iowa was the better fit, calling it “probably a great decision.”

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

More must-reads: