Caitlin Clark’s rise in the basketball world has been nothing short of meteoric. At the University of Iowa, she redefined what it meant to be a scoring machine. This includes breaking the NCAA Women’s Basketball’s all-time scoring record with 3,941 career points, previously set by Kelsey Plum (3,527) back in 2017, propelling the Hawkeyes into national prominence.
Known for her electrifying long-range shooting and exceptional playmaking, Clark quickly became a household name, drawing unprecedented attention to women’s basketball. Her achievements at Iowa, including record-breaking scoring and numerous accolades such as multiple Naismith and Wooden Awards, paved the way for her transition to the professional stage.
Now, as a cornerstone for the Indiana Fever and WNBA Rookie of the Year, Clark continues to make her presence known, even when she returns to her alma mater.
Caitlin Clark’s Return to the Big Ten
In a heartwarming scene at the Big Ten Tournament, former Iowa star Clark was spotted courtside at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, igniting memories and stirring emotions among fans and former teammates.
Caitlin Clark is in the house to cheer on her old team 👏#B1GWBBall x @IowaWBB pic.twitter.com/LnFZWtSb16
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) March 6, 2025
As the Hawkeyes decimated the Wisconsin Badgers 81-54, Clark’s casual presence and playful interaction with current Iowa forward and best friend Jada Gyamfi reminded everyone that, even as players’ paths diverge, the bonds forged in college remain unbreakable.
It was during a lull in the game that Clark, with her trademark mix of humor and mentorship, leaned over and teasingly added, “Why didn’t you shoot?” to Gyamfi, a moment that culminated in a warm genuine hug.
In Caitlin Clark’s house tonight 👊#B1GWBBT x @IowaWBB pic.twitter.com/p4HHthDPGn
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) March 6, 2025
Social media lit up almost immediately as fans and former teammates shared throwback photos and heartfelt messages about the duo’s shared history.
Who Is Jada Gyamfi?
While Clark’s statistics and record-breaking feats often dominated headlines during her time at Iowa, many of her teammates were often overlooked. Gyamfi, a former standout at Johnston High School in Johnston, Iowa, might not boast a college career littered with record numbers, but she remains a cherished part of the Hawkeyes’ family.
For many fans, watching Clark, now a superstar, interact with Gyamfi brings back nostalgic memories of Iowa’s thrilling rise under Coach Lisa Bluder.
Social media erupted as Gyamfi reposted the moment on Instagram, using playful emojis to underscore the affection and mutual respect shared between the two. Fans have since speculated on the future: If Gyamfi continues to develop he game, could she eventually enter the WNBA and once again share the court with her longtime friend Clark?
Future Prospects: A Reunion on the Professional Stage?
Currently, Caitlin Clark is dominating the WNBA, while Gyamfi is averaging less than five minutes of playing time per game with the Hawkeyes. Given the circumstances, it feels highly unlikely that Gyamfi will be given the opportunity to play at the next level.
However, anything is possible.
Her role within the offense at Iowa would have to grow a lot in her senior season, but you never know what could happen in a year from now. The WNBA is constantly finding unexpected draft gems that were undervalued at the college level (Erica Wheeler, Kate Martin, Kristy Wallace), so there is at least a chance (mind you a small one) that Clark and Gyamfi could be reunited at the professional level.