Today marks a historic milestone in women’s basketball as two of the sport’s brightest stars, A’ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark, each had their college jerseys retired on the same day. This simultaneous honor highlights their extraordinary impact on the game and underscores the rising prominence of women’s sports.
A’ja Wilson, a hometown hero and former South Carolina Gamecock, was overcome with emotion as her No. 22 jersey was retired and raised at Colonial Life Arena. Wilson’s collegiate career was nothing short of legendary: she led the Gamecocks to their first national title in 2017, earned four All-American honors, and was named unanimous National Player of the Year in 2018. She finished her career as South Carolina’s all-time leading scorer with 2,389 points and set the program record for blocked shots.
On the day of Wilson’s jersey retirement, the No. 2-ranked South Carolina women’s basketball team delivered an impressive 83-66 victory over Auburn, extending their home winning streak to 70 games and their SEC regular-season streak to 56. Freshman Joyce Edwards led the Gamecocks with 18 points, while Chloe Kitts and MiLaysia Fulwiley added 13 and 17 points, respectively. The win pushed South Carolina’s record to 21-1 overall and 9-0 in the SEC. Throughout the game, Wilson’s legacy was honored, with highlights of her storied college career playing on the video board during breaks, adding a personal touch to a day already filled with significance for the program.
At Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Caitlin Clark’s No. 22 jersey was retired, making her just the third Iowa player to receive this prestigious honor. Clark, who became the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer, shattered both men’s and women’s records during her time at Iowa. A two-time National Player of the Year, Clark’s electrifying play and deep shooting range sparked the “Caitlin Clark effect,” boosting the visibility of women’s basketball to new heights.
To make the moment even sweeter, on February 2, Iowa’s Lady Hawkeyes pulled off a thrilling 76-69 upset over No. 4 USC. The game featured a dramatic finish, showcasing individual brilliance and team resilience. Iowa raced out to a 17-point lead, but USC stormed back in the second quarter to take a narrow halftime advantage. Despite a late-game surge from the Trojans, the Hawkeyes regained control, with Lucy Olsen delivering a clutch performance, scoring 15 of her 28 points in the fourth quarter. Iowa’s defensive pressure, forcing five USC turnovers in the final stretch, sealed the victory.
This win was more than just a triumph on the court—it served as the perfect backdrop for Clark’s jersey retirement, symbolizing the passing of the torch to a new era of Iowa basketball. While USC’s JuJu Watkins fought valiantly with 27 points, she was left to shoulder the load alone, as the Trojans couldn’t find enough support. With key contributions from Addison O’Grady and Hannah Stuelke, the Hawkeyes proved once again that anything is possible. It was a day that beautifully bridged Iowa’s past and future, culminating in an unforgettable moment for the program, its students, and fans.
Both athletes have continued to thrive in the WNBA. Wilson, drafted first overall by the Las Vegas Aces in 2018, has already won two WNBA titles, three MVP awards, and two Olympic gold medals. Clark, selected first overall by the Indiana Fever in 2024, quickly made her mark by earning WNBA Rookie of the Year honors while setting league records for assists and rookie scoring.
The simultaneous retirements of Wilson and Clark’s jerseys reflect the growing recognition and respect for women’s basketball. Their accomplishments have not only elevated their college programs but also inspired a new generation of players and fans. The sellout crowds and extensive media coverage of these events serve as a testament to the increasing popularity and marketability of women’s sports.
- A’ja: The 2018 No.1 pick, 3x WNBA MVP, 2x WNBA Champion, 2017 NCAA National Champion, and 2x Olympic Gold Medalist.
- Caitlin: The 2024 No.1 pick, 2024 WNBA ROTY, 2024 WNBA Assists Leader, NCAA All-Time Leading Scorer, and so much more.
As their jerseys now hang in the rafters at their beloved universities, Wilson and Clark’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, standing as symbols of excellence, determination, and the progress of women’s athletics.
