In a heartfelt display of admiration and community spirit, Rosa Bennett of Marion, Iowa, is preparing for a dream come true: attending a sold-out Indiana Fever preseason game at Carver-Hawkeye Arena featuring Caitlin Clark. Her devotion to Clark has been unwavering for years, exemplified by a striking Hawkeye logo painted across her driveway—an artistic tribute that has stood the test of time despite being intended as temporary. For Bennett, the paint may have faded slightly, but her admiration for Clark remains as vivid as ever.
Inside her home, Bennett’s deep admiration for Clark is further reflected in a vibrant collection of memorabilia. Among handpicked posters and specially-designed shirts, she proudly shares her emotional connection to each item. Some were collected personally, others gifted by friends who knew how much Clark meant to her. One standout piece—a shirt celebrating the Hawkeye Wave—holds special significance as a symbol of unity and kindness, attributes Bennett sees in Clark both on and off the court.
The upcoming exhibition game, featuring Clark and the Indiana Fever against Brazil’s national team, marks a homecoming of sorts. With over 15,000 eager fans packing the arena, Bennett will be in attendance thanks to a generous friend who gifted her extra tickets. Her elation upon learning she could attend was uncontainable, sparking a flurry of phone calls to family in a jubilant effort to share the moment. For her, this is not merely a basketball game—it is a celebration of inspiration, perseverance, and the joy of seeing her hero in action.
Bennett’s admiration stems from more than Clark’s basketball prowess. It’s rooted in the athlete’s broader influence on young women across the country. Clark, in Bennett’s eyes, is a catalyst for change—proof that women’s sports can command headlines, hearts, and hope. Bennett believes Clark has ignited a powerful sense of possibility in young girls, showing them that their dreams are valid and their potential limitless.
When asked what she’d say to Clark if given the chance, Bennett’s answer is simple yet profound: “Thank you.” Those two words carry years of admiration, gratitude, and a quiet wish that Clark never changes. Come game day, Bennett—decked out in a custom, glitter-laced jacket—will stand proudly among thousands, not just as a fan, but as someone who feels seen, empowered, and grateful for the journey Clark has inspired.