Caitlin Clark’s return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena was nothing short of magical.
After leaving a lasting legacy as a college star, Clark was back on her old stomping ground for the Indiana Fever’s preseason game against the Brazil national team on Sunday, April 4. More than just another game — it was a full-circle moment packed with emotions and memories.
The game marked a return to a place where Clark became a household name in college basketball, and her performance made it clear that she’s still the same player who dazzled at Iowa.
Caitlin Clark Reflects on Her Return to Iowa
When asked how it felt to be back, Clark was overwhelmed by the moment.
“I think it’s hard to put into words what exactly it means to me,” she said, trying to sum up her emotions. “It’s almost overwhelming to a point. I’m just very thankful to be able to come back to a place that continues to support me,” she added.
You could hear the gratitude in her voice — coming back to a place that helped shape her career meant a lot. Clark spent countless hours playing on this court, and now, to return as a professional, it was emotional for her.
Caitlin Clark on what it meant to be surrounded by so many friends and family today in Iowa City:
“I think it’s hard to put into words on what exactly it means to me. It’s almost overwhelming…..” pic.twitter.com/DqlYTw9A1d
— Dallas Jones (@DallasJonesy) May 4, 2025
She went on to share some personal moments: “And [to] see old friends that are having a great time getting to watch me do my thing, that don’t play basketball anymore, that are just my friends. Spending time with them, even though it was just dinner last night. It’s just fun to come back here and kinda feel like you’re in college again in a way.”
That last part was interesting. It wasn’t just about playing basketball; it was about feeling the camaraderie of her college days, reconnecting with old friends, and reliving those memories that made Iowa so special for her.
Clark Delivers Stellar Performance to Match the Moment
Clark’s emotions didn’t stop her from putting on a show. In a dominant 108-44 victory for the Fever over Brazil, she put up 16 points, six rebounds, and five assists. But the highlight of the night was a jaw-dropping 36-foot shot she took right in front of the giant ‘22’ logo on the court.
This logo wasn’t just for show — it was a tribute to the exact spot where Clark broke the NCAA all-time women’s basketball scoring record in February 2024. That logo marked a historic moment in women’s basketball history, and Clark’s shot from beyond the arc was a fitting nod to her legacy.
Caitlin Clark from DEEPER than her 22 logo on the floor at Carver-Hawkeye Arena 🤯 pic.twitter.com/WMy1xAVPcV
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) May 4, 2025
Even though she missed the Fever’s preseason opener against the Washington Mystics due to a bit of back tightness, Clark showed no signs of rust.
With the Fever’s stacked roster featuring additions like DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Sophie Cunningham, it’s clear Clark is poised for another exciting season.