Caitlin Clark's jersey was retired in a bitter-sweet ceremony at the Carver Hawkeye Arena on Sunday. The event drew thousands of Hawkeyes fans who filled the stands to honor Clark, the all-time leading scorer in college basketball. Her jersey retirement was celebrated with cheers and applause as fans acknowledged her significant impact on the program and the sport.During the ceremony, Clark expressed her gratitude, saying, "I know my jersey is up there, but it wouldn't be if it wasn't for all of you." Her words resonated with the crowd, highlighting the community and culture that contributed to her success. The event was more than just a celebration of her achievements; it was a testament to how she transformed the program and inspired a new generation of athletes.Fans shared personal stories of Clark's influence: "Ten years ago, there were not this many people here. That's the first thing," said Shelley Asher of Iowa City, who has held season tickets for a decade."A couple of years ago, she gave her shoes to one of my friends, and we came for my birthday, and I feel like it's just been really cool we have that moment," said McKenna France of Fort Madison."And just having young girls excited, she's playing basketball and all the girls who are like, 'Shoot it like Caitlin Clark.' I'm a teacher, and at recess, boys are shooting like, 'Look, I'm like Caitlin.'" said Leanna Houston of Grimes.As Clark's jersey was raised to the rafters, it symbolized the end of an era and the beginning of a promising future for women's basketball. There is no doubt that her legacy will continue to inspire, ensuring that her impact on the game endures for years to come.Clark will return to Carver in May with her WNBA team. The University of Iowa announced Thursday that Clark and the Indiana Fever will play the Brazilian National Team in a preseason game Sunday, May 4. Tipoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tickets will be made available at a later date.» Subscribe to 糖心vlog's YouTube page» Download the free 糖心vlog app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google PlayIowa retires Caitlin Clark's No. 22 jersey: WATCH: Full Caitlin Clark press conference ahead of No. 22 jersey retirement at Iowa Iowa basketball: Hawkeyes stun No. 4 USC 76-69 ahead of Caitlin Clark jersey retirement Forever 22: Photos, videos from Caitlin Clark's jersey retirement ceremony Iowa honors Caitlin Clark by retiring her number and hanging it in the rafters