Caitlin Clark was all business on Thursday night.
The Iowa star set the NCAA women’s scoring mark just over three minutes into the first quarter against Michigan, break Kelsey Plum’s record of 3,527 points.
Despite finishing the half with a 53-41 lead and 28 points, Clark wasn’t taking a moment to dwell on her achievement.
“It’s cool to be in the same realm of a lot of really, really good players. Lucky to do it ’cause I have really good teammates, really good coaches and a great support system that surrounds me,” the senior said on the Peacock broadcast, adding stoically, “We need to play better defense.”
As it turns out, offense was the best defense for Clark, who also set an Iowa mark with 49 points in the 106-89 win, exiting with a minute and a half left in the fourth quarter.
She was honored after the game for her achievements, though the plaudits came from outside Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City.
“Incredible @CaitlinClark22 take it all in!” USWNT captain Alex Morgan wrote on X.
“She’s made history!” tennis icon Billie Jean King wrote on social media. “Cheers to @CaitlinClark22, the new NCAA Women’s Basketball All-Time Leading Scorer.”
With the game over, Hawkeyes players and fans celebrated Clark’s achievements — as did her coach, Lisa Bluder.
“I’m so happy for Caitlin,” Bluder said. “Not only does she go over the top of the scoring record, she has 49 tonight. When you do it you do it well, girl.
“She picked a great night to do it. We’re going to celebrate Caitlin tonight. She deserves it.”
