George Kittle, star tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, has a strong connection to his alma mater, the University of Iowa, where he met his wife, Claire, a former Hawkeyes basketball player. The couple frequently returns to Iowa City to attend events, such as women’s basketball games, where they had the opportunity to watch standout player Caitlin Clark in action during her final year with the team. Kittle has praised Clark for her authenticity, charisma, and genuine interest in others, qualities that were evident when he met her in person after a game where she scored 32 points to help the Hawkeyes advance.
During his interactions with Clark in Iowa’s training room, Kittle witnessed her warm and caring personality, as she took time to greet and chat with everyone present. He noted the stark contrast between Clark’s competitive nature on the court and her humble demeanor off it, admiring her ability to seamlessly transition between the two. Kittle expressed his excitement for Clark’s success and shared his anticipation for her professional career after being selected as the number one overall pick by the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. He believes that Clark’s popularity will attract a strong following of Iowa fans to the Fever’s games, leading to sold-out stadiums each time she plays.
Kittle indicated that his household will likely become dedicated Fever fans, supporting Clark in her journey through professional basketball. He also mentioned the possibility of a WNBA team coming to the Bay Area, which he would also support as a player for the San Francisco 49ers. Despite wearing his wife’s jersey at a previous event, he plans to add a Caitlin Clark jersey to his collection to show his support for the talented rookie. Kittle’s admiration for Clark’s character, work ethic, and on-court performance reflects the genuine respect and appreciation he has for her as a fellow athlete and Hawkeye.
In addition to being impressed by Caitlin Clark’s athletic abilities, George Kittle also highlighted her exceptional character and the positive impact she has on those around her. Describing her as personable, authentic, and deeply caring, Kittle praised Clark’s ability to connect with teammates, fans, and strangers alike. He emphasized the importance of these qualities in building a strong reputation and establishing enduring relationships, underscoring Clark’s ability to excel both on and off the court. As he continues to support her career in the WNBA and follow her success with the Indiana Fever, Kittle’s admiration for Caitlin Clark serves as a testament to the impact of athletes who embody dedication, passion, and integrity.
