New York — New York-based Caitlin Clark! The Iowa star surprised viewers on “Saturday Night Live” during the “Weekend Update” segment. She heard about the idea at the Final Four, but talks had been going on for weeks.
“I didn't know the script until I showed up and saw it, and was like this is very good,” Clark told the AP Sunday. Set them right about women's sports was great. Great crowd. I'm more nervous than for basketball. A bucket list item.”
The Indiana Fever are likely to pick the Iowa standout first in the WNBA draft on Monday night in New York. After reporter Michael Che joked about Iowa retiring her jersey, the NCAA Division I all-time leader arrived. Clark got the last laugh as Che read additional crack jokes Clark says she written about the comic.
“Many cast members came up to me and were so excited I was there and said they always watched us,” Clark said. “My heart was beating through my chest before they pushed me in the chair.” After praising several outstanding basketball players, the Iowa native spoke heartily about her future.
“I'm sure it will be a big first step for me, but it's just one step for the WNBA thanks to Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, Cynthia Cooper, Dawn Staley, and my basketball hero, Maya Moore,” Clark said.
“These women kicked down the door to let me in. I want to thank them tonight for laying the groundwork.”
After the show, Clark returned with Kate Martin, Gabbie Marshall, and Jada Gyamfi, her old Hawkeye colleagues. Clark stated her teammates entered New York City yesterday, which was cool. A producer asked whether they wanted to go onstage at the end. They were initially shellshocked, but it's nice to have these moments with them."
Clark watched the first half from the dressing room to avoid spoiling the surprise for spectators. She saw musical guest Chris Stapleton's second performance on set after her entrance.
Clark has had a busy week since her team lost the national championship game to South Carolina in Cleveland. After accepting the John R. Wooden Award in Los Angeles and celebrating the team at the Iowa arena, she is in New York.
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