ESPN has elevated its coverage of Iowa women’s basketball sensation Caitlin Clark to new heights, with the network assigning a dedicated reporter to follow her journey through the NCAA Tournament with the Hawkeyes.
According to reporting from The Athletic’s Richard Deitsch, ESPN’s Holly Rowe has been designated as the reporter tasked with covering all aspects of Clark’s tournament experience. Rowe will be on the ground for Iowa’s opening game in Iowa City as well as the team’s second-round matchup, provided they avoid an unexpected upset in the opener.
Additionally, Deitsch notes that Rowe will serve as a sideline reporter for Iowa’s opening-round NCAA games. These assignments mark Rowe’s exclusive coverage of the tournament’s early rounds, emphasizing the significance of Clark’s presence in the competition.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Rowe commented:
“I am honored to say that I am the Caitlin Clark reporter. We have had a presence on the ground covering the special moments with Caitlin this year and I have been at every one of her games where she set a record. I see it as an extension of the dedicated coverage we have had with Caitlin all year. I think there is an intrigue and appetite for all things Caitlin. I can’t tell you how many NBA coaches and players have asked me about Clark this year. For instance, I just had a long conversation with Steph Curry after one of his games in Utah where we talked about her.”
Clark, widely projected as the top overall pick in the upcoming 2024 WNBA draft, has crafted an illustrious college career with the Hawkeyes, with only an NCAA title eluding her grasp.
The 22-year-old has etched her name in NCAA history as the all-time leading scorer, across both men’s and women’s basketball, earning recognition as a three-time All-American. Her accolades include the Wooden Award, Naismith Award, two Big Ten Player of the Year titles, and a Big Ten tournament MVP, among others.
Entering the NCAA Tournament, Clark boasts averages of 31.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game across 33 appearances, shooting 46.0 percent from the field and 38.1 percent from beyond the arc.
With Iowa anticipated to secure a No. 1 seed on Selection Sunday, all eyes will be on Clark as she aims to culminate her historic collegiate journey with a championship before transitioning to the WNBA.
