The debate over whether Caitlin Clark needs to win the national championship to be considered the greatest of all time in women’s college basketball is ongoing. South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley believes that winning the championship would solidify Clark’s status as the GOAT, but she admits that Clark is already an exceptional player regardless. Iowa and South Carolina are set to compete in the national championship game, which will be Clark’s final collegiate game before declaring for the WNBA Draft. The question of whether a championship is necessary to cement her legacy has been the subject of much discussion.
Breanna Stewart, a four-time UConn champion, believes that winning a national championship is a crucial component of being considered the GOAT in women’s college basketball. Stewart, who swept the Final Four Most Outstanding Player awards during her time at UConn, is often hailed as the college GOAT herself. Staley, who had a standout college career at Virginia but did not win a championship, agrees with Stewart’s assessment that a championship is a key factor in determining a player’s legacy. Despite having a successful career, Staley recognizes the significance of winning a championship in solidifying a player’s place in history.
The issue of championships versus individual records is highlighted in the case of Caitlin Clark, who recently broke the NCAA Division I women’s basketball scoring record. Kelsey Plum previously held the record before Clark surpassed it, showcasing the transient nature of records. Clark’s accomplishments have brought her into the conversation of the greatest of all time, particularly due to her lack of five-star teammates. In contrast, Stewart’s UConn teammates during her championship runs were comprised of several WNBA talents, further emphasizing the weight placed on winning a championship in being considered the GOAT.
The presence of former players like Plum, Stewart, and current WNBA stars in Clark’s games further highlights the significance of her achievements. Watching Clark play, breaking records and achieving milestones, raises the question of whether a championship is needed to cement her legacy. With USC’s JuJu Watkins also making a strong impact in her freshman year, the competition for the title of the GOAT in women’s college basketball continues to intensify. The debate over Clark’s status as the greatest of all time persists, with opinions varying on the importance of championships versus individual records in determining a player’s legacy. Ultimately, the outcome of the national championship game may play a crucial role in solidifying Clark’s place in the history of the sport.
