“Is Caitlin Clark the greatest player… ever? Five inquiries about Iowa’s exceptional guard”
If you haven’t been keeping up with Caitlin Clark’s recent performances, you might want to tune in this Sunday when Iowa plays before the Super Bowl. Clark is on the verge of breaking the NCAA women’s basketball scoring record, currently held by Kelsey Plum, needing 39 points to achieve this milestone. With Clark having scored more than 35 points in 11 out of 24 games this season, it’s entirely possible she could reach this mark against Nebraska on the road (1 p.m. ET, Fox). As the senior guard continues to lead the No. 2 Hawkeyes towards what could be a deep March Madness run, possibly even a return to the Final Four, a panel of experts has been assembled to discuss various aspects of her game. They’ll examine where Clark stands among past players, her impact on the game, her potential in the WNBA (where she’s expected to be the No. 1 pick if she declares), and memorable moments from her career so far. USA TODAY Sports reporter Lindsay Schnell, columnist Nancy Armour, and USA TODAY NETWORK reporter Chad Leistikow of the Des Moines Register share their insights on a player who has inspired the next generation of basketball players.
DO YOU BELIEVE CAITLIN CLARK IS THE GREATEST WOMEN’S COLLEGE PLAYER EVER? WHY?
Lindsay Schnell: Can we please show some respect to the legends? Cheryl Miller, in my opinion, would outclass Caitlin Clark – along with Sabrina Ionescu and most other modern-era players who’ve been hailed as The Next Big Thing.
Nancy Armour: While she’s definitely part of the conversation, for me, Cheryl Miller still holds the title. Miller, who won two NCAA titles and was a three-time national player of the year at USC, maintained a double-double average over her last three seasons. Additionally, Miller played before the introduction of the 3-point shot and had a stronger supporting cast, factors that likely impacted her scoring opportunities.
Chad Leistikow: Let the debates akin to LeBron vs. Jordan commence. We’re in a different era now compared to the 1980s or 1990s. Clark’s every move is scrutinized in today’s social media landscape, and she consistently rises to the occasion. She’s facing unparalleled pressure and still delivering remarkable performances. With her poised to break Plum’s record, potentially by a wide margin, and her impressive overall stats, she could indeed be considered the best women’s college player ever.
WILL CAITLIN CLARK MAINTAIN THIS LEVEL OF PRODUCTIVITY AND DOMINANCE IN THE PRO LEAGUE?
Schnell: Unlikely, but it won’t be necessary. The WNBA will present a significant adjustment for Clark, similar to past college standouts. However, her shooting range and court vision will make her a valuable playmaker. While she may not replicate her college scoring output, she could still have a successful career, perhaps averaging around 15 points per game.
Armour: Much of Clark’s success in the WNBA will depend on the team that drafts her. If she lands with a team that provides offensive support, she could thrive. However, facing elite-level defenses in every game will pose a challenge.
Leistikow: While I don’t claim expertise in this area, Rebecca Lobo’s opinion carries weight. She believes Clark could put up MVP-caliber numbers as a rookie. Lobo’s endorsement suggests that Clark’s game is adaptable and will translate well to the professional level.
WHAT IS CLARK’S IMPACT BEYOND IOWA? WHY DOES SHE MATTER SO MUCH?
Schnell: Clark’s influence extends beyond inspiring young female players; she’s also capturing the attention of young male athletes. Her rise coincides with a surge in the popularity of women’s sports, and her visibility has helped further accelerate this trend. As a result, fans are discovering and appreciating other talented players in women’s basketball.
Armour: Clark’s impact is profound. She’s drawing in viewers across gender lines, exemplifying a pivotal moment for women’s sports. Her influence mirrors what Jordan did for the NBA after the legacies of Magic and Bird, propelling the sport to new heights.
