“Special Person”- Former Kentucky Coach John Calipari Acknowledges Caitlin Clark’s Greatness at the John R. Wooden Award Ceremony

The popularity of Caitlin Clark knows no bounds. Not only fans but some eminent figures from the basketball world are also in awe of her impact on women’s basketball. An example of that transpired at the recently conducted John R. Wooden Award ceremony. Three-time Naismith College Coach of the Year John Calipari got the chance to meet the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer. Following this, he couldn’t wait to share his experience.

The former University of Kentucky head coach was a fellow Wooden Award winner alongside Clark at the ceremony. He was conferred with The Legends of Coaching Award. Anyhow, the other moment he thought was worth sharing on his X handle was coming face-to-face with Clark. In the post, he wrote, “Had a chance to meet @CaitlinClark22 at the @WoodenAward ceremony, and I am very impressed. Caitlin has transformed women’s college basketball, but it hasn’t changed who she is and how she treats others. Special person!”

After winning back-to-back John R. Wooden Awards, Clark joined an elite list of women athletes who have won this honor twice. She became the 7th name after Seimone Augustus (2005, 06), Candace Parker (2007, 08), Maya Moore (2009, 11), Brittney Griner (2012, 13), Breanna Stewart (2015, 16), and Sabrina Ionescu (2019 & 20) to be recognized Women’s Player of the Year by this prestigious institution. After the year Clark had, it’s no surprise she was bestowed this honor.

In the 2023-24 season, Clark became the NCAA DI all-time scoring leader, made the most threes in a single season, breaking Stephen Curry’s record, and scored the most points in a single season, among numerous historic achievements. Meanwhile, there was another noteworthy name in this year’s John R. Wooden Award ceremony.

Like how Clark lost the National Championship Game to the South Carolina Gamecocks, Purdue’s Zach Edey lost the Final to the UConn Huskies. Despite defeat, both these superstars showcased their immense talent on the court. While they do not have a championship to show for it, these awards make sure their contributions are recognized.

Zach Edey joins Caitlin Clark and John Calipari in this year’s honors

For the second year in a row, Purdue’s 7 ft 4 in center Zach Edey went home with the Wooden Award for Most Outstanding Player in the men’s division. Thus, he became the first back-to-back unanimous NPOY in over 40 years. This feat was previously accomplished by Virginia’s Ralph Sampson in 1982 and 83. Edey was the leading scorer in this year’s men’s division, averaging 25.2 points on 62% shooting from the field. Moreover, he also got Purdue’s records for career points and rebounds under his name.

While Clark is gearing up for the WNBA Draft on April 15, Edey will be looking forward to the NBA Draft in June. Both of these talented stars will hope to translate their college success into the pro leagues. Clark is the widely projected No.1 pick, but can Edey follow suit and become the 1st pick as well? Only time will tell.