At this stage in her prolific career, Caitlin Clark has more than earned the right to carry herself how she pleases on the court. After the Iowa women’s basketball star outdueled Louisville’s Hailey Van Lith in the Elite Eight, Clark’s reacting gesture was probably only something she could pull off.
For most of the night Sunday, Clark and Van Lith were locked in an epic shot-for-shot battle. But Clark was just a noticeable step (or two) better than her former Team USA teammate, dropping 41 points, 12 assists, and 10 boards in an epic triple-double on one of the biggest stages.
No wonder Iowa won 97-83. Clark was that much better.
After nailing a three in the waning moments, Clark appeared to turn to Van Lith and give her a classic “you can’t see me” gesture with her hand. WWE wrestler John Cena would be proud of a move he popularized being used in such a cold-blooded manner:
Caitlin Clark ( @CaitlinClark22 ) just did a "You can't see me" to Hailey Van Lith ( @haileyvanlith )???#MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/avwPCpZ786
— Antonio Garcia (@Iruk_WomenSport) March 27, 2023
PHEW. Imagine being as good as Clark, the likely National Player of the Year, backing your play up and then also seemingly rubbing it in.
What a game for Clark and what a memorable moment over a rival.