The basketball world witnessed a historic moment as Caitlin Clark, affectionately dubbed “Ponytail Pete” for her reminiscent playing style akin to “Pistol Pete” Maravich, secured her place in the record books on Sunday during her final regular-season home game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

Clark, the standout star of the Iowa Hawkeyes, surpassed the legendary Maravich, both in college and NBA lore, for the most points scored by any Division I basketball player, regardless of gender.

In a fitting tribute on senior day, Clark entered the game against Big Ten champions Ohio State requiring 18 points to eclipse Maravich’s longstanding record of 3,667 points set during his tenure at LSU from 1967 to 1970. With remarkable finesse and determination, Clark achieved this milestone in the first half, ultimately tallying an impressive 35 points, alongside 9 assists and 6 rebounds, in Iowa’s exhilarating 93-83 victory over the Buckeyes.

The triumph not only halted Ohio State’s 15-game winning streak but also avenged Iowa’s previous defeat to them earlier in the season. With this win, Clark’s career point total now stands at 3,685, solidifying her place in basketball history.

Reflecting on her achievement, Clark expressed disbelief at surpassing such a monumental milestone, emphasizing the caliber of players who had preceded her in the sport. She credited her innate scoring ability while acknowledging the legacy of those who had excelled before her.

Clark’s record-breaking moment unfolded in dramatic fashion, as she sank two crucial free throws in the dying seconds of the first half, seizing the opportunity presented by a technical foul against Ohio State. Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder commended Clark’s composure under pressure, underscoring her proficiency from the free-throw line.

This season has been marked by a series of milestones for Clark, including her decision to forgo an additional year of eligibility and enter the 2024 WNBA draft. Despite the personal accolades, Clark remains focused on team objectives, with her sights set on leading Iowa to further success in postseason play.

As the curtain falls on Clark’s collegiate career, her impact on the game of basketball resonates far beyond the court. With records shattered and legacies cemented, Caitlin Clark’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and sheer talent.