Caitlin Clark Brings Home More Than Hoops: A New Basketball Court, 500 Backpacks, and a Powerful Message of Hope

On a bright summer day in Des Moines, Iowa, Caitlin Clark gave her hometown something it won’t soon forget—hope, opportunity, and a reminder that dreams really can come true. On July 28th, 2025, the WNBA star returned to her roots, not to take the spotlight, but to shine it on her community.

Through the Caitlin Clark Foundation, she unveiled a brand-new outdoor basketball court at McCombs Middle School, a project that has been months in the making. This wasn’t just a court—it was a message, loud and clear: every child deserves a safe place to play, to grow, and to believe in what’s possible.

But Caitlin didn’t stop at cutting the ribbon. Her foundation also handed out 500 fully loaded backpacks to local students, helping ease the burden for families preparing for the new school year. For many in attendance, this gesture was about more than supplies—it was about feeling seen, supported, and encouraged.

The event began with heartfelt speeches from community leaders and partners who helped make the project a reality. Mary Coffin, president of the Caitlin Clark Foundation, spoke with conviction about the foundation’s mission to bridge access to education and sports for kids who often get left behind. “We believe every child deserves a fair shot—on and off the court,” she said, her voice steady with emotion.

Judy Newman, chief impact officer at Scholastic, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of pairing academic support with opportunities in athletics. “Books and basketball might not seem like they go together—but both give kids the tools they need to succeed,” she said.

Perhaps the most touching remarks came from Dr. Ian Roberts, Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. He thanked Caitlin not just for the court or the supplies, but for her unwavering presence in the lives of local kids. “You don’t just represent Iowa on a national stage,” he said. “You represent every student who ever thought they weren’t enough. And today, you showed them they are.”

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for. As Caitlin stepped up to the microphone, the schoolyard exploded in applause. Dressed casually, with a smile that stretched from ear to ear, she looked every bit the hometown hero—because that’s exactly what she is.

In her speech, Caitlin kept things personal. She thanked the volunteers and school staff who helped make the event a reality. She acknowledged the sponsors who stepped up. But most of all, she spoke directly to the kids.

“This court is for you,” she said, scanning the faces of the children gathered in front of her. “Not just to play basketball, but to make memories, to learn from each other, and to dream bigger than you ever thought possible.”

The message landed. For the young students at McCombs, many of whom face real-life challenges far beyond their years, hearing those words from someone who walked the same school halls meant everything.

As the crowd dispersed and kids rushed to try out the new court, there was a feeling in the air that something bigger had just happened. Sure, it was a celebration. But it was also a turning point.

This was more than an athlete giving back. It was a young woman using her platform to lift others. Caitlin Clark may be known for her game-changing plays on the basketball court, but on this day, she reminded everyone that her greatest impact might just be off of it.

And as the sun set over the newly painted lines of the court, one thing was clear: the future of Des Moines is looking a little brighter, one kid—and one backpack—at a time.