Dawn Staley Praises Caitlin Clark: A GOAT Who Transformed Women’s Basketball

In the aftermath of South Carolina’s dominant 87-75 victory over Iowa in the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship, head coach Dawn Staley took a moment to recognize Caitlin Clark, one of the most transformative players in the sport’s history.

“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport,” Staley said during her postgame press conference. “You are one of the GOATs of our game, and we appreciate you.”

Staley’s heartfelt words were a testament to Clark’s impact—not just on Iowa basketball but on women’s college basketball as a whole. As Clark’s legendary college career comes to an end, it’s clear that her influence will be felt for generations.

The Caitlin Clark Effect: A Star Who Changed the Game

Caitlin Clark wasn’t just a great player—she was a movement. Her record-breaking performances, electrifying deep-range shooting, and fierce competitive spirit brought unprecedented attention to women’s college basketball.

Record-Breaking Career

Clark rewrote the NCAA record books, finishing with:

• 3,951 career points – The most in NCAA Division I history (men’s or women’s)
• 1,144 career assists – Top five in women’s college basketball history
• 216 three-pointers in a season (2023-24) – A new NCAA record
• Four triple-doubles in NCAA Tournament play – The most ever

Her ability to pull up from anywhere on the court, her laser-accurate passes, and her unwavering confidence made her a must-watch superstar.

Bringing Eyes to the Game

The “Caitlin Clark Effect” wasn’t just about her stats—it was about how she elevated the popularity of women’s basketball.

• The 2024 NCAA Tournament shattered viewership records, with Clark at the center of it all.
• The national championship game between Iowa and South Carolina drew over 18 million viewers, making it the most-watched women’s basketball game ever.
• Clark’s impact extended beyond college—she inspired a new generation of young athletes and drew comparisons to icons like Steph Curry and Diana Taurasi.

Her bold playing style and fearless attitude made her a once-in-a-lifetime talent.

Dawn Staley’s Words: A Tribute from One Legend to Another

Dawn Staley knows greatness. As a three-time national championship coach, a Hall of Fame player, and a trailblazer for women’s basketball, she understands the significance of Clark’s impact.

Her words after the national championship were not just a casual remark—they were a genuine expression of gratitude for what Clark had done for the sport.

“Caitlin Clark, if you’re out there listening, you are one of the GOATs of our game,” Staley continued. “I hope you take that with you to the next level, because you have lifted up our sport in ways that many people dream of.”

It’s rare for a rival coach to offer such high praise after a championship win. But Staley recognized that Clark’s contributions to the sport transcend competition.

Respect Among Rivals: The Clark vs. South Carolina Story

Clark’s final college game came against a South Carolina team that had unfinished business after losing to Iowa in the 2023 Final Four.

• In 2023, Clark scored 41 points to end South Carolina’s perfect season and send Iowa to the title game.
• In 2024, South Carolina got its revenge, using its depth and defensive dominance to overpower Clark and Iowa in the championship game.

Despite the rivalry, there was never any doubt about the respect between Clark and Staley.

Before the game, Staley acknowledged the challenge of facing Clark, calling her “one of the best competitors I’ve ever seen.”

After the game, she gave Clark her flowers, ensuring that the basketball world knew just how much she admired her.

What’s Next for Caitlin Clark? The WNBA Awaits

Clark’s college career may be over, but her journey is just beginning.

She is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, where she will likely join the Indiana Fever.

Can She Bring the “Clark Effect” to the WNBA?

The WNBA has been growing steadily, but Clark’s arrival could skyrocket interest in the league.

• Ticket sales for Indiana Fever games have surged, with sellouts and record demand even before she’s officially drafted.
• WNBA viewership is expected to hit all-time highs, much like the NCAA Tournament.
• She could become the face of the league, just as she was for women’s college basketball.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy Cemented

Dawn Staley’s public recognition of Caitlin Clark’s greatness was a moment that underscored how much Clark meant to the game.

Her records will be broken someday. But her cultural impact—her ability to bring millions of new fans to women’s basketball—will never be forgotten.

Clark wasn’t just a player—she was a game-changer. And when one of the sport’s greatest coaches calls you a GOAT, you know your legacy is secure.