Caitlin Clark, the NCAA all-time Division One scoring leader and a standout basketball player from the University of Iowa, made headlines this week with her appearance on the popular podcast “New Heights,” hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce. The episode, set to air on January 2, provides an in-depth look into Clark’s journey in the world of sports, touching on both the triumphs and challenges she has faced as a young athlete.
In a preview clip released by Women’s Health, Clark reflects on the overwhelming nature of college recruitment. She recalls receiving her first recruitment letters as early as seventh grade, a process that she and Travis Kelce both deemed “insane.” Clark credits her parents, Brent and Anne, for helping her navigate the pressures of fame and recruitment, emphasizing their role in allowing her to enjoy her childhood without the burden of college decisions looming over her. “I feel very fortunate,” she stated, explaining how her parents would ask her brother to collect the mail to shield her from the influx of recruitment letters.
The five-star recruit took a deliberate approach to her college choice, waiting until her senior year to commit to the University of Iowa. “I was never in a rush,” Clark explained, highlighting the importance of having a supportive circle around her that prioritized her well-being over the recruitment frenzy. Even in her early years, Clark’s talent was evident; as a middle schooler, she often played with high school students, simply enjoying the game without any pressure.
Her career has been nothing short of remarkable, as she has broken numerous records, including becoming the NCAA Division One all-time leading scorer and the WNBA Rookie of the Year, along with setting the assists record and rookie scoring record. Clark’s rise in the sports world has been closely watched, and her appearance on “New Heights” marks her as the second female guest not related to the Kelce brothers, following actress Nia Nash.
In addition to her impressive athletic achievements, Clark is also a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, the team for which Travis Kelce plays as a tight end. Fans had speculated about her appearance on the podcast after she was seen chatting with Travis during Taylor Swift’s concert in Indianapolis back in November, further intertwining the worlds of sports and entertainment.
Overall, Caitlin Clark’s candid discussion on “New Heights” not only showcases her incredible talent and achievements but also highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective amid the pressures of being a young sports star. As she continues to make waves in the basketball world, her story serves as an inspiration for young athletes everywhere.