Bailey Lux had a deep love for the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team, and she formed a special bond with stars Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin during their time at the university. Even as Clark and Martin transitioned to the WNBA, playing for different teams, Bailey’s admiration for them only grew stronger. It was through the Make-A-Wish Foundation that 14-year-old Bailey’s dream of spending an entire day with her heroes became a reality, creating a memory that would last a lifetime.
Caitlin Clark, now a WNBA superstar with the Indiana Fever, and Kate Martin, playing for the Las Vegas Aces, were more than happy to reunite with Bailey. In early July, Bailey’s wish came true when she visited Clark and the Fever before their game against Martin and the Aces in Las Vegas. The Fever went above and beyond to make the day special, creating an unforgettable experience for Bailey.
“It’s been truly a spiritual uplifting,” Bailey’s father, Kraig Lux, shared with the IndyStar during the visit. “She hasn’t stopped smiling. This is just one of those things that makes her incredibly happy, and we have to take advantage of that.”
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Caitlin Clark, who has touched the lives of many fans with her incredible talent, was visibly moved by Bailey’s visit. “At the end of the day, basketball doesn’t matter,” Clark said, reflecting on the emotional experience. “That poor girl has obviously lost her mom already to cancer, and then is fighting for her own life. For me, this is what she spent her Wish on, how cool is that… Obviously that makes an impact on her, but it does in my life too.”
Sadly, just as the Indiana Fever were preparing to take on the Chicago Sky, news broke that Bailey Lux had passed away. The devastating announcement came as a shock to many, including Caitlin Clark, who had formed a deep connection with Bailey. Despite the heartbreaking news, Clark delivered a standout performance in the game, leaving NBA stars like LeBron James in awe of her resilience and talent.
Chloe Peterson, who had originally reported on Bailey’s special day with her former Iowa teammates, shared the tragic news on X (formerly Twitter), further highlighting the impact Bailey had on everyone who met her.
In a touching tribute to Bailey, her family has encouraged funeral guests to wear Iowa Hawkeyes gear, celebrating the team and players she loved so much.
Bailey Lux’s story is one of courage, love, and inspiration. Her life, though tragically short, left a lasting impact on her heroes and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
As Caitlin Clark and others continue to remember Bailey, her legacy will undoubtedly live on, a reminder of the power of connection and the importance of making dreams come true.
