Sydney Affolter Ignores Caitlin Clark While Choosing Iowa’s Unsung Hero for Leadership Growth

Even if you’re not familiar with women’s basketball, chances are you’ve heard of Caitlin Clark. The former Iowa point guard made history by breaking the NCAA’s all-time leading scoring record for both men and women in her final year. Her collegiate career saw her set over 46 records. However, her former teammate Sydney Affolter doesn’t believe Clark should be admired for her leadership. Instead, she looks up to another Iowa alum for inspiration this season.

Following Clark’s graduation, Affolter will be leading the Hawkeyes. During a media session, she revealed that she intends to emulate Kate Martin this year.

Affolter praised Martin as a role model and highlighted their similarities in personality and playing style. She expressed her excitement at being a leader and voice that others can look up to, just like Martin was for their team.

Kate Martin captained the Hawkeyes for four seasons and led them to two NCAA Championship Finales with her exceptional leadership. Described as the team’s enforcer, Martin set a high standard for her teammates with her foresight. Even Caitlin Clark praised her as the best leader she had ever known.

Martin’s coaches and fans lauded her as the glue that held the team together, leading her to return for an extra year. Affolter has much to learn from Martin’s leadership qualities, as she expressed in a video.

Kate Martin has gained a major fan following over time

In her WNBA rookie year with the Las Vegas Aces, Martin was surprised by the overwhelming fan support. Despite not expecting much, her jerseys sold out quickly, and fans, known as “Martinis,” showed strong support for her.

Although Martin may not have matched up to top players in the league, she has garnered a loyal fan base. As she continues her career in the W, she is poised to be a leader for both Affolter and other W stars.