A historic rookie season, record-breaking performances, massive endorsement deals, from being the face of NCAAW to WNBA- Caitlin Clark did it all in 2024. However, through all the glitz, glamour, and global recognition, one thing that has remained constant is her Iowa family. They’ve been there since day one, and we just know they’ll be cheering her on even if the rest of the world hits pause. So, naturally, when Caitlin was crowned TIME’s Athlete of the Year, her Iowa supporters didn’t hold back in showering her with love.

This honor places Clark in legendary company, joining the ranks of icons like LeBron James and Simone Biles. It’s a big deal, not just for CC but for women’s sports as a whole. TIME didn’t just choose her for what she’s done on the court (though that alone is amazing); it’s also about her unparalleled impact on the game. 

From boosting WNBA attendance numbers to rewriting most rookie records, Clark’s influence has been monumental. It almost felt like every time you blink, she’s breaking another record. She started the year as the NCAA all-time scoring leader and ended with bagging Rookie of the Year in the WNBA.

Off the court, she became the face of Nike in women’s basketball. Reflecting on her influence, she told TIME, “I’ve been able to captivate so many people that have never watched women’s sports, let alone women’s basketball, and turn them into fans.” 

But you know what’s even more heartwarming? The moment her season ended, she was back in Iowa, reconnecting with her roots. Despite her superstar status, Clark hasn’t let the fame get to her head. She’s still that girl from Iowa, running back to her community where she’s loved in the purest, most genuine way. And it shows. 

Caitlin Clark stuns the hoop world, leaves friends speechless

“Maybe it’s TIME to get into modeling???? 😉” That’s what Gabbie Marshall had to say about Caitlin Clark’s stunning TIME Athlete of the Year cover. And she’s got a point. This isn’t the first time Caitlin’s given us model vibes—her Nike banners alone have shown she can rock a professional photoshoot like it’s just another day in the gym. 

On this post, though, it’s not just Gabbie; plenty seem to agree that Caitlin might have a whole second career waiting for her. “You are beautiful!!!” Kate Martin chimed in, keeping it short but sweet. We already know Caitlin, Kate, and Gabbie were the iconic Hawkeye trio, the ultimate “bestie goals” on and off the court. While Kate and Caitlin pursued pro basketball, Gabbie chose further education, but their bond has remained as tight as ever, hyping each other up on Instagram and celebrating career milestones.

Then there was Monika Czinano, Caitlin’s longtime partner-in-crime on the court, famously dubbed “The law firm of Clark & Czinano” by Hawkeye fans. “I’ll need a couple of days to process this,” she said. Honestly, same, Monika.

Back in their Iowa days, together, these two have been the most productive duo in Hawkeye basketball history. Till now, backing even other up spirit remains the same but from the sidelines. Earlier this year, Czinano was right there, cheering as CC lit courts for Fever. “Okay, it’s giving face and body😍😍,” wrote Hannah Stuelke, and let’s just say the internet agrees. Everything about Caitlin’s photos, from her poise to her confidence, was flawless. 

But don’t let the glam fool you. Caitlin’s still all about the grind. As Hannah jokingly shared, Caitlin knows to keep everyone accountable and push them to work harder, especially those she loves. “Jaw dropped,” said Jada Gyamfi, who recently reunited with Caitlin, Gabbie, and Kate for her podcast, which (no surprise here) went viral. 

 “Just fell out of my chair😦😍 u ate this up,” added Taylor McCabe, summing up what all were thinking. 

The 2024 ROTY’s TIME honor isn’t just about her achievements, it’s about how she’s done it with unmatched style. With reactions like these pouring in from friends, fans, and fellow WNBA stars, Caitlin Clark’s TIME Athlete of the Year honor is going to stay in the headlines for a long time.