IOWA CITY, Iowa — The tribute was officially for the significant contributions Caitlin Clark made to Iowa basketball.

Her record-breaking scoring. The championships. The consecutive appearances in the national title games.

However, long before her No. 22 jersey was raised to the rafters on Sunday afternoon, it became evident that this recognition extended beyond just sports. Clark has elevated the perception of women and female athletes, and this was an occasion for her fans to express their gratitude.

Fans started lining up outside the arena several hours before the start of the game. Despite the unseasonably warm weather, it was still February in the Midwest.

Once the doors of Carver-Hawkeye Arena opened, students hurried to secure the best seats while season ticket holders took a more relaxed approach. Most wore Clark’s jersey number or shirts celebrating her legacy. Messages like “You break it, you own it” and “HER” prominently displayed on the state of Iowa were common.

When Clark took her seat shortly before the game, the crowd erupted in cheers as if she had just scored a last-second three-pointer.

“It’s been enjoyable reflecting on the past year and the incredible journey we had,” Clark remarked before the game. “It’s a strange feeling being back here and not actually playing, but it’s still an exciting time for this program. I feel very lucky to be part of it.”

Iowa has always had a strong following for women’s basketball, and interest was growing before Clark became a standout performer. However, her ability to capture attention exceeds that of most female athletes, resulting in significant influence on and off the court.

Last year, the Iowa women’s team generated more revenue from ticket sales than the men’s team, and this season saw a sold-out allocation for season tickets once again. Many sponsors and investors are eager to invest in women’s sports.

The naysayers who used to belittle women’s sports have largely retreated, aware of the embarrassment that follows such remarks. Young girls and women who admire Clark now realize they can aspire to anything they desire.

More importantly, the boys and men watching her understand that as well.

“The positive representation you’ve brought to this program, this university, this state, and women’s basketball on a national level is immeasurable,” said former Iowa coach Lisa Bluder, who announced her retirement after last season, during the jersey retirement celebration.

“I’ve dedicated my career to empowering young women. But what you’ve accomplished in the past four years exceeds anything we could have imagined,” she continued. “You illustrated the importance of investing in women’s sports and women in general.

“It isn’t just the right thing to do,” Bluder said as the crowd cheered, “it’s also the smart thing to do.”

Even though Clark can see the growing crowds and interest in women’s sports, truly understanding this shift might not happen until after she retires from playing.

However, Sunday’s game offered her a glimpse of “the Caitlin Clark effect” from a supportive perspective.

The Hawkeyes have faced challenges this season after losing Clark along with Kate Martin and Gabbie Marshall, yet they played fiercely against fourth-ranked USC. The Trojans struggled to score until JuJu Watkins made a three-pointer with just 26 seconds left in the first quarter, and Iowa led by as much as 19 points midway through the second quarter.

USC fought back, resulting in a competitive game throughout the second half until Lucy Olsen took charge in the fourth quarter.

Watching from the stands with her boyfriend, brothers, and parents, Clark enthusiastically cheered and gestured to direct the Hawkeyes’ strategy, standing and shouting support every time they shot. As Iowa began to pull ahead, she remained standing, leaning forward, and vocally encouraging her team.

The energy in the arena was electric, creating an exhilarating atmosphere found in top-level basketball, whether men’s or women’s. When the game concluded with Iowa winning 76-69, the student section flooded the court in celebration.

“The atmosphere was nothing short of electrifying,” expressed Watkins, the sophomore star who could potentially challenge Clark’s records in the future.

“It’s a testament to Caitlin’s impact and where the sport is headed,” she added. “I’m incredibly thankful to be part of it and to show what women’s basketball can achieve.”

That embodies Clark’s true legacy.

While her retired jersey serves as a symbol of her accomplishments on the court, her impact reaches far beyond, and no banner could fully encompass it.

“It was amazing to witness the appreciation directed towards her,” said Watkins, who, like the entire USC team, stayed to watch the jersey retirement. “I’m a big fan of hers, and seeing her receive this honor is incredible.”

Watkins might one day experience a similar event in Los Angeles after her USC career, but Sunday was dedicated to Clark, a well-deserved recognition for her achievements and far-reaching influence.”

Follow News Sports columnist Nancy Armour on social media @nrarmour.