Caitlin Clark to College GameDay? Iowa Fans Hope for Fever Star as Guest Picker

After a two-decade absence, ESPN's College GameDay is returning to Iowa City this Saturday, and Hawkeye fans are buzzing about one big question: Will Caitlin Clark make a surprise appearance as the celebrity guest picker?

The flagship pregame show hasn't visited Johnson County since Iowa hosted Ohio State nearly 20 years ago. Now it's back for the Hawkeyes' rivalry clash with Iowa State, set to air at 9 a.m. ET Saturday. While the regular cast will be on hand, ESPN has yet to announce the celebrity guest picker, leaving fans to speculate that one of the state's greatest sports icons could be in the wings.

Why fans think Caitlin Clark could appear on College GameDay

Clark, the former Iowa superstar and current Indiana Fever guard, has strong ties to Iowa City. Her college career made her a household name in the state, and her presence would electrify the crowd. Several factors make the rumor plausible:

• The Fever were eliminated in the first round of the WNBA playoffs, leaving Clark with no game obligations this weekend.
• Her signature Nike shoe launched Thursday, with a record-breaking release in 5,000 stores, double the typical rollout for basketball footwear.
• Nike installed a special hardwood floor featuring Clark's CC logo less than 100 feet from where the College GameDay crew will set up.

In many ways, Clark seems like the ideal candidate to rally Hawkeyes faithful in yellow and black. But is it really likely?

Obstacles that could keep Clark away

Despite the buzz, several factors suggest Clark might skip the festivities. The Fever's playoff exit was disappointing, and Clark struggled in the decisive game, shooting just 6-of-18 with more turnovers than assists. She also took an elbow to the face from Las Vegas' Jewell Loyd, leaving her with a visible shiner.

Clark, a fiercely competitive player, expressed frustration with how the season ended. That doesn't exactly set the stage for a celebratory appearance. There's also the lingering tension with College GameDay host Pat McAfee, who made derogatory comments about Clark in 2024. That history could make Clark hesitant to appear under the program's banner.

What ESPN has said about the guest picker

On Friday, host Rece Davis hinted that a contingency plan exists to allow a special guest to continue the guest-picking tradition, according to Hawkeye Roundtable's Brad Schultz. Whether that guest is Clark remains unclear. If Indiana had won Game 3, the Fever would have started a new series Sunday, making Clark's appearance even less likely.

Who else could be the guest picker?

If Clark doesn't get the nod, ESPN could turn to Seth Rollins. The WWE superstar is a Davenport, Iowa native and already has a contract with ESPN. While Rollins is a big name in sports entertainment, some might argue his star power doesn't quite match Clark's at the moment.

What this means for Iowa fans

For Iowa fans, the return of College GameDay is a momentous occasion regardless of who joins the desk. The matchup between the Hawkeyes and Cyclones is one of the state's most anticipated sporting events, and the national spotlight is a win for Iowa City.

Whether Clark shows up or not, Saturday promises to be a celebration of Iowa athletics. Fans tuning in can expect a lively broadcast, passionate analysis, and perhaps a surprise or two. As for Clark, her future with the Fever and her growing brand off the court will keep her in the spotlight, with or without a guest-picking gig.

Frequently asked questions about Caitlin Clark and College GameDay

Is Caitlin Clark confirmed as the College GameDay guest picker?

No. ESPN has not announced the guest picker as of Friday, and Clark's participation remains speculation.

Why would Caitlin Clark appear on College GameDay in Iowa City?

Clark is an Iowa legend with deep ties to the university. Her availability, combined with the show's location in her former home arena, makes her a natural fit for the role.

Could Caitlin Clark skip College GameDay due to her playoff loss?

Yes. Clark struggled in the Fever's final game and expressed frustration with the season's end, which could make her less inclined to participate in a festive event.