Caitlin Clark surpasses Pete Maravich’s 54-year-old record to become the all-time NCAA points leader.
Caitlin Clark has outperformed every individual, both male and female, in the history of major college basketball. The 22-year-old Iowa sensation shattered Pete Maravich’s long-standing NCAA basketball points record on Sunday at the vibrant Carver-Hawkeye Arena during a match against Ohio State. She achieved this historic feat by sinking a free throw with 0.3 seconds remaining in the first half, breaking Maravich’s 54-year-old record.
Entering the game needing 18 points to surpass “Pistol Pete’s” NCAA record of 3,667 points, Clark concluded the match with an impressive 35 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, contributing to Iowa’s 93-83 victory and securing her total career points at 3,685.
FOR THE ALL-TIME SCORING RECORD!!!!! 🤩 🔥 CAITLIN CLARK!@CaitlinClark22 x @IowaWBB pic.twitter.com/dBHFW9k2PK
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 3, 2024
Reflecting on her achievement, Clark expressed humility, acknowledging the legacy of successful players like Pete, Kelsey Plum, and Lynette Woodard, and expressed her hope for someone to surpass her records in the future, with her offering support.
While there has been some debate comparing Clark’s and Maravich’s careers, given Maravich achieved his total in three seasons compared to Clark’s four, and the differences in playing conditions, Jaeson Maravich, Pete’s son, praised Clark for her incredible accomplishments.
Anticipation for Clark breaking the record drove ticket prices for the game to unprecedented levels, becoming more expensive than any women’s college or WNBA game in history. Signs held by young girls in the crowd expressed support and inspiration by Clark, showcasing her impact on women’s college basketball’s popularity.
Clark’s journey has been historic, breaking records previously held by Kelsey Plum and Lynette Woodard. She declared for the 2024 WNBA Draft, forgoing her final year of NCAA eligibility. The Indiana Fever holds the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft scheduled for April 15 at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
