The Rise of Women’s Basketball and the Humility of Superstars (written in March 2024)

I am not one to jump on bandwagons for media stars. Even though I am a grateful Iowa State Cyclone alum, I am enthralled, as are millions of people, with the success of Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team. I am a college basketball fan, and the Iowa women have provided amazing excitement this winter.

I played Iowa high school basketball. I have had an affinity for basketball ever since I played forward using “girls’ rules” with a 2-dribble limit on the half court. It was the only sport available in my small rural school and was just as popular as boys basketball. In college I played field hockey and volleyball because they were the only team opportunities for me. Iowa State did not have women’s basketball in those “old days.”

I do not know what more I can say about Caitlin Clark other than what has been reported on social media as well as national sports shows. I am thrilled that women’s basketball is getting such attention. I know Caitlin has her detractors and she is not perfect, yet I am a fangirl.

The breaking of records has fed Clark’s stardom especially on social media. Caitlin, however, has impressed me most with her passion and humility as she plays the sport. I am biased and cannot watch her and her teammates play without feeling the emotion and joy of women’s basketball games. Caitlin wears those emotions on her sleeve and seems to express the same delight whether she makes a logo 3-pointer or assists one of her teammates in a great play. She expresses her frustration too and tries to smile quickly when things change.

I am most impressed by Clark’s apparent humility. When interviewed, she is quick to acknowledge the contributions of her teammates, coaches, family, and the fans. One of my high school teachers told me, “When you’re great, you can afford to be humble.” Caitlin knows she is outstanding, but she lets her actions speak for that greatness and gives credit to those around her. I admire this trait above everything else that she does.

I have long loved the game of basketball. Caitlin Clark’s skill and demeanor have added to my admiration for the way that women and men play the game. Regardless of what happens in the NCAA tournament, I am grateful for witnessing the skill and role model that Caitlin portrays.

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