In a poignant display of solidarity and tribute, Caitlin Clark, renowned for her prowess in women’s basketball, adorned a different name on her iconic No. 22 Iowa jersey during a recent game against Illinois. Instead of “Clark,” the jersey bore the name “Keough,” sparking curiosity among spectators and fans alike.
The deviation from her usual identifier was not arbitrary but rather a heartfelt homage to Dan Keough, a cherished family friend who valiantly battled colorectal cancer in 2012. This gesture was part of the team’s participation in the Play 4 Kay initiative, an endeavor dedicated to raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research, named in honor of the late Coach Kay Yow.
The sea of pink jerseys on the court served as a visual reminder of the cause, resonating deeply with spectators and players alike. Each player on the Iowa team donned a different name on their jersey, symbolizing their connections to individuals impacted by cancer.
Kate’s Cookin’ 👩🍳
5 pts, 2 reb, 1 ast for @kate_martin22.
1Q 4:47 | Iowa 12, UI 6 #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/PSb5iWjmmY
— Iowa Women’s Basketball (@IowaWBB) February 25, 2024
For Caitlin Clark, the tribute transcended symbolism, fueling her performance on the court. Demonstrating her unparalleled skill, she recorded her sixth triple-double of the season and 16th of her career, tallying an impressive 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists against the Fighting Illini.
Dan Keough, the honored name on Caitlin Clark’s jersey, is more than a mere acquaintance. As the chairman and CEO at Holmes Murphy & Associates and an Iowa alum, Keough has been an avid supporter of Clark since her early basketball endeavors, following her journey with unwavering enthusiasm.
Reflecting on Clark’s gesture in 2022, Keough expressed his profound appreciation, acknowledging the parallels between Clark’s tenacity on the court and the resilience required in battling cancer. His sentiments underscored the profound impact of Clark’s tribute, transcending the confines of sports to embody the spirit of perseverance and solidarity in the face of adversity.
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