In a world where athletes are often admired for their on-court talent, some rise above the game to show their true character off the court. Caitlin Clark, the Iowa Hawkeyes’ basketball sensation, has become a household name for her record-breaking performances and jaw-dropping shooting ability. But recently, she made headlines for something much deeper—her kindness.
It all started when a struggling single mother, Jasmine Carter, reached out to Clark in a heartfelt message on social media. A mother of two young children, Jasmine had been facing financial hardships, barely making ends meet while working multiple jobs. A lifelong basketball fan, she had always looked up to Clark—not just as an athlete, but as a symbol of perseverance.
“I never thought she’d even see my message,” Jasmine admitted. “I just poured my heart out, telling her how much I admired her and how I was trying to keep my kids’ dreams alive despite everything we were going through.”
To Jasmine’s surprise, Caitlin Clark not only saw the message but responded in a way that left her in tears.
Clark privately reached out to Jasmine, asking how she could help. Within days, she arranged for Jasmine’s kids to attend one of her upcoming games—front-row seats. But that wasn’t all. Caitlin quietly worked behind the scenes to provide Jasmine with a generous financial gift, ensuring she could pay her rent and bills for the next few months.
“When I saw her response, I just broke down,” Jasmine said. “She didn’t have to do any of this. But she did, because she’s got a heart bigger than the game she plays.”
Clark, known for her humility, didn’t make a public statement about the gesture. Instead, she simply told Jasmine, “You’re doing an amazing job. I just wanted to make things a little easier for you.”
The story has since gone viral, with fans praising Clark’s act of kindness. But for Jasmine, it was never about the money or the tickets. It was about the reminder that someone—someone she admired—cared.
In an era where sports are dominated by headlines of contracts, records, and rivalries, Caitlin Clark’s compassion serves as a powerful reminder: true greatness isn’t just measured by stats, but by the impact we leave on others.
Diana Taurasi retires: LeBron James, Caitlin Clark and more react to Mercury superstar’s decision to walk away
After a glittering professional career that saw her nab three WNBA titles, six gold medals, 10 All-WNBA First Team appearances, and an MVP award, Diana Taurasi is finally walking away from the game of basketball.
The Mercury supernova formally announced her retirement on Tuesday afternoon. Time Magazine’s Sean Gregory was the first to report the news.
Taurasi’s announcement spelled an end to a 20-year hoop odyssey unlike any other. Taurasi, 42, is widely considered the sport’s greatest-ever talent, a 6-foot offensive machine whose slick handle, precise footwork and competitive spirit made her glimmer, even in a league filled with supernovas. She entered the game a titan — dubbed “the greatest guard prospect in women’s basketball history” after her trophy-laden UConn career. She left it a legend.
Taurasi had been teetering with retirement for some time. Given her age and longevity, fans tended to shower her with affection, unsure just how much longer she would hold out before leaving the sport she played a major role in revolutionizing.
Diana Taurasi leaves the game with one of the best trophy cases in basketball history 💯 pic.twitter.com/EcTzwSZ7Es
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) February 25, 2025
In the end, 2025 felt like an apt time to let go. Taurasi nabbed another piece of hardware during her final season — her sixth Olympic gold medal.
“Mentally and physically, I’m just full,” Taurasi said. “That’s probably the best way I can describe it. I’m full and I’m happy.”
The sports world lapped endless praise on Taurasi following Tuesday’s reveal. Here’s a look at some of the most touching tributes toward Taurasi, a hoops marvel in more ways than one.
Diana Taurasi retirement reactions
A host of luminaries felt compelled to praise Taurasi for her contributions to basketball, including Lakers star — and fellow all-time leading scorer — LeBron James.
“Just seeing her transcend the game, watching little girls want to play like her, her style, her flair, her bravado, you know, her swagger, it’s been an unbelievable treat,” James said (via Time). “She’s one of the all-time greatest, and she will leave her mark on the game of basketball the moment she ties those shoes up and throws them over the pole line. It’s been an honor. All love.”
He wasn’t alone in his assessment. The praise for Taurasi was nigh on universal throughout Tuesday evening.
