Caitlin Clark of Iowa Surpasses ‘Pistol’ Pete Maravich’s NCAA Division I Scoring Record
Bollywoodfever, March 4: Just two weeks after setting a new benchmark for women, Caitlin Clark has now emerged as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball, regardless of gender.
Heading into Sunday’s clash with the Ohio State Buckeyes, the standout from Iowa Hawkeyes needed just 18 points to eclipse “Pistol Pete” Maravich’s longstanding record of 3,667 career points, a feat that had remained unchallenged for over five decades. Clark shattered this record with a free throw in the second quarter, securing her place as the highest scorer in the history of NCAA basketball, for both men and women.
As the game concluded on Sunday, with the Hawkeyes triumphing over the Buckeyes 93-83, Clark had amassed a total of 35 points.
This performance elevated Clark’s career total to 3,685 points, setting a new record for NCAA scoring.
Reflecting on the moment she surpassed the record with a successful free throw, Clark mentioned that the milestone hadn’t been at the forefront of her mind. It was only upon hearing the crowd’s reaction following the announcement that she realized the magnitude of her achievement, she shared in an interview with Fox reporter Allison Williams.
In a postgame discussion, Clark expressed pride in her team’s commanding performance against the Buckeyes, stating, “We came out and dominated.” She praised her teammates for their spirited play, describing the victory as both fun and dominant. “I’m just proud of our girls,” she added, highlighting the team’s exceptional performance.
During her Senior Night ceremony, Clark shared her profound appreciation for the journey she’s embarked on since beginning her tenure at Iowa, a journey that started with playing in empty gyms due to COVID-19 restrictions to now seeing games that sell out tickets rapidly.
“The transformation is largely thanks to my team, my coaches,” Clark acknowledged. She then extended her gratitude towards the fans, emphasizing their pivotal role in elevating the experience. “It’s you all who have made this journey truly remarkable,” she said to the enthusiastic crowd, recognizing their significant contribution to not just her success but to the advancement of women’s basketball and sports at large.
“This journey has been extraordinary, thanks to your support. You’re instrumental in revolutionizing women’s sports,” Clark expressed sincerely.
Reflecting on her four years wearing the Iowa jersey, Clark echoed the sentiments of Coach Bluder and her teammate Kate Martin, hinting at the excitement that still lies ahead. “Our adventure isn’t over; there’s still much joy to be found in this game,” she conveyed.
On February 15, Clark achieved a monumental milestone in women’s basketball by surpassing Kelsey Plum’s record of 3,527 career points, a record set in 2017, during a game against Michigan where she scored an impressive 49 points, marking a career best. “To have reached this point, fulfilling so many dreams along the way, fills me with gratitude,” Clark reflected after the game, which concluded with a 106-89 victory for Iowa.
Her performance continued to shine brightly as she scored 33 points in a subsequent game against Minnesota, solidifying her status as the all-time leading scorer among women in major college basketball. This record was previously held by Lynette Woodard of Kansas, who scored 3,650 points from 1977 to 1981, during a time when the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women governed women’s sports.
Following Sunday’s game, Clark and Woodard took the opportunity to connect and share in the celebration of Clark’s monumental achievement.
“This is a monumental era for women’s basketball,” Woodard remarked during an interview with Fox’s Williams, following the establishment of Clark’s new record.
“Caitlin is at the forefront of this movement. Watching her progress, I’ve always believed that records are not only meant to be broken but also to be cherished,” Woodard commented. “Thanks to Caitlin, my accomplishments are receiving their due recognition.”
Woodard added, “I was aware that she needed 18 points to surpass the record, while my own playing days are behind me. I hoped to metaphorically pass the baton to her, encouraging her to shatter existing barriers. I’m thrilled to see her achieve this.”
Clark’s record-breaking moment coincided with her last regular-season game in college basketball. Despite having an additional year of eligibility, the 22-year-old senior disclosed her decision to join the WNBA draft the following month.
Reflecting on her impending departure from college basketball, Clark shared, “The full impact of this moment might take some time to settle in, but I intend to savor it with my family and teammates. I’m profoundly grateful for my time here.”
Clark’s final season has been marked by significant achievements and impressive statistics, maintaining an average of 32 points per game and surpassing 40 points on several occasions. The 6-foot guard from West Des Moines has also been notable for her playmaking, averaging over 8 assists per game and recently achieving her 1,000th career assist, a milestone reached by only five other women in college basketball history.
Now holding the scoring record, Clark’s sights are undoubtedly set on leading her team, with a 25-4 record, towards a national championship, building on their previous journey to the NCAA title game where they were runners-up to LSU.
Pistol Pete” Maravich’s record of 3,667 points, set during his tenure at LSU from 1968 to 1970, was the men’s NCAA scoring record before Clark’s achievement.
Maravich, who passed away in 1988 at the age of 40, left a lasting legacy in basketball, including a distinguished NBA career with multiple All-Star appearances, playing for teams like the Atlanta Hawks, the then-New Orleans Jazz, and a season with the Boston Celtics.
Also Read, LeBron James son Bronny entering the 2024 NBA Draft?
Bookmark and Follow us for More Entertainment News
