With the WNBA currently in its offseason, players are finding different ways to make the most of their time before the league kicks off again. Some use the break to enjoy time with their families, others dedicate it to extra training and conditioning. Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark, however, chose a different route—using her time to show support for her former college team, the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Clark was spotted on the sidelines during the Iowa Hawkeyes’ matchup against the Drake Bulldogs on Sunday night. Given her immense popularity and status as a rising star in basketball, the cameras were frequently focused on her, capturing her reactions throughout the game.
During one tense moment, Clark’s frustration was on full display as Iowa center Addison O’Grady was fouled by a Drake player. The camera caught Clark visibly upset, and it appeared that she had some choice words—likely directed at the referees. The moment quickly went viral on X (formerly known as Twitter), with fans sharing the clip just two days after the game.
Clark’s emotional reaction generated mixed responses from fans and followers.
On one hand, many admired her passion and loyalty to her former team. It was clear that Clark’s connection to the Iowa program runs deep, and seeing her invest so much emotion into their success even after moving on to the professional ranks was a testament to her dedication.
However, there was also criticism. Some pointed out that Clark’s demeanor toward the officials was reminiscent of her behavior during her WNBA games. Despite being incredibly talented and winning the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year award, Clark has often faced criticism for her interactions with referees, with some perceiving her approach as too confrontational.
The viral clip reignited this conversation, with some calling her out for berating the officials, suggesting that her intense competitive nature might need some adjustment.
RELATED: Caitlin Clark’s Brother Shares Exciting Personal Announcement
Despite the viral moment and the mixed reactions to her sideline conduct, Clark’s presence seemed to provide a boost to the Hawkeyes, who finished the night with an emphatic 86-63 victory over the Drake Bulldogs. The win marked an impressive continuation of Iowa’s perfect season, bringing their record to 5-0.
The standout performer for the Hawkeyes was Addison O’Grady, who delivered a stellar performance, finishing with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 1 assist in 33 minutes of play.
O’Grady’s dominance in the paint helped Iowa control the game, and her ability to capitalize on opportunities was a major factor in the team’s comfortable win.
Clark’s support and visible passion for her former team is a reminder of the strong bonds that players often maintain with their college programs.
Even after transitioning to the professional stage, Clark remains closely connected to Iowa, celebrating their victories and showing her frustration during tough moments—just as she did when she was their star player.
As the WNBA offseason continues, fans will be keeping an eye on Clark, whether she’s lighting up the court in Indiana or cheering on her beloved Hawkeyes from the sidelines.
While some fans may debate her conduct during these intense moments, there is no denying Caitlin Clark’s love for the game and her deep loyalty to her former team.
For now, the Iowa Hawkeyes will be looking to carry their momentum forward, while Clark continues to be an advocate for the program that helped shape her into the player she is today.
