The 2024 NCAA Tournament has delivered its fair share of thrilling matchups, and the Elite Eight showdown between the Iowa Hawkeyes and LSU Tigers was no exception. Fueled by a record-breaking performance from Caitlin Clark, the Hawkeyes emerged victorious, advancing to the Final Four.
Despite the defeat, a heartwarming moment occurred in the post-game handshake line, as captured by a tweet from Dime (@DimeUPROXX):
“Kim Mulkey on what she told Caitlin Clark in the handshake line: ‘I sure am glad you’re leaving. Girl, you something else. Never seen anything like it.’ .”
Kim Mulkey on what she told Caitlin Clark in the handshake line: "I sure am glad you leaving. Girl, you something else. Never seen anything like it." 😅 pic.twitter.com/tIaW8ASBLD
— Dime (@DimeUPROXX) April 2, 2024
This exchange highlights the competitive spirit and mutual respect within college basketball.
Caitlin Clark: A Generational Talent Ignites Iowa’s Final 4 Run
The matchup between Iowa and LSU in the Elite Eight was a battle of giants. The stakes were high—a ticket to the Final Four awaited the victor. Clark, already a household name in college basketball, had been dazzling fans all season. Her limitless range, court vision, and scoring ability set her apart. Against the Tigers, she unleashed her full arsenal.
Clark’s stat line against LSU was nothing short of jaw-dropping. She poured in 41 points, dished out 12 assists, and grabbed seven rebounds. Her 3-pointers seemed to defy physics, and her court awareness left opponents scrambling. But it wasn’t just the numbers—it was the way she played. Clark’s fearlessness, her ability to take over games, and her infectious passion endeared her to fans across the nation.
As the final buzzer sounded, Iowa emerged victorious with a 94-87 win. In the postgame handshake line, Kim Mulkey, known for her intensity and competitiveness, stopped Clark. She pulled her close and offered a few words. Mulkey’s smile revealed the respect she held for the Iowa superstar. “I sure am glad you’re leaving,” she said. “Girl, you’re something else. Never seen anything like it.”
Mulkey’s assessment is spot-on. Caitlin Clark isn’t just a player; she’s a generational talent. Her impact on the game transcends statistics. She’s a creator, a magician with the ball, and a leader who elevates her teammates. Last season, she became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer for both men and women—an achievement that speaks volumes about her legacy.
ALSO READ: Caitlyn Jenner’s Easter Controversy: Transgender Day of Visibility Clash