From shattering records to redefining women’s college basketball, Caitlin Clark has carved her name into history. The NCAA’s all-time leading scorer on the women’s side and a Naismith Player of the Year, Clark’s college journey was nothing short of extraordinary. But even as she makes her mark in the WNBA, Clark hasn’t forgotten those who stood beside her during the grind — like Sydney Affolter.
Caitlin Clark Showed Love to Iowa’s Sydney Affolter
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Affolter announced her farewell to the Iowa Hawkeyes, marking the end of an inspiring college career.
“Thank you college basketball for giving me countless memories and lifelong sisters. Wearing Iowa across my chest has been the honor of a lifetime. Through every high and low, this place and this game have shaped me in ways I’ll carry forever. Once a hawk, always a hawk🤍🐥,” Affolter wrote as the caption of her post.
Amid the flood of support and tributes, one message stood out. Clark dropped a simple yet powerful four-word comment: “I love you squidy.”
While Clark often stole the headlines while at Iowa, Affolter was arguably the heartbeat of the team in key moments. Known for her relentless hustle and high basketball IQ, she was the type of player every coach dreams of having. In her final season, she averaged 8.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, stepping up big when Iowa needed her most.
One of her standout performances came during Game 2 of the 2023-2024 season. With the pressure at an all-time high and all eyes on Clark, Affolter delivered one of her best games. She grabbed a career high 14 rebounds and played lockdown defense, helping Iowa defeat Virginia Tech (80-76).
Though she didn’t always get the spotlight, due in part to injuries, including a meniscus tear, Affolter’s impact never wavered. Her growth from bench player to reliable starter showcased her grit and commitment.
As Affolter bids farewell to the college stage, her legacy remains cemented in Hawkeyes history — not just for what she did, but how she did it. However, Clark wasn’t the only one to show love to Affolter.
Another Former Player Showed Love to Affolter
During her time at Iowa, Affolter was surrounded by a strong core of teammates who helped build a winning culture. Like Clark, another former Hawkeyes star has now shown her appreciation for Affolter.
Gabbie Marshall, who spent five seasons with the Iowa women’s basketball program, recently took to Instagram to express her support for Affolter. She reshared Affolter’s original post on her story and added a simple but heartfelt caption: “Proud of my girl.”
Marshall’s show of love is a reminder of the deep connection within the Iowa program, even as players move on to new chapters in life. While Marshall has stepped away from basketball, she continues to pursue excellence — now working toward a master’s degree in occupational therapy.