According to the official statement shared by the Clark family, Anne experienced a serious health complication early this morning at the family residence in West Des Moines.
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Emergency services were called immediately, and she was transported to MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, where she is now receiving intensive care. The family has not yet disclosed the specific nature of her condition but described it as “life-threatening and unexpected.”
“Our family is devastated by the events of this morning,” the statement read. “Anne is the heart of our family and has always been a source of strength, not only to us but to everyone who knows her. We are asking for your thoughts, your prayers, and your understanding as we face this incredibly difficult moment.”
Anne Nizzi-Clark, a former marketing executive and devoted mother of three, has long been recognized as a steady and guiding force in Caitlin Clark’s life. Throughout Caitlin’s record-breaking basketball career—from high school to college to the WNBA—Anne was a constant presence, cheering from the sidelines and offering support in moments of victory and challenge alike.
Fans may remember Anne from her frequent appearances in televised games and interviews, where her warmth, humility, and fierce pride in her daughter’s achievements made her a beloved figure in the basketball world.
News of Anne’s condition has quickly gone viral, with an outpouring of support from fans, former athletes, coaches, and public figures. Hashtags like #PrayersForAnne and #ClarkStrong began trending on social media within minutes of the announcement.
Former Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder posted:
“Anne was more than a basketball mom—she was part of the Hawkeye family. Sending all my love to Caitlin and the entire Clark family during this difficult time.”
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert also issued a brief statement, expressing support on behalf of the league:
“Our thoughts are with Caitlin and her family. Anne has always been a symbol of strength and grace. We hope for her swift and full recovery.”
Caitlin Clark, now 55, has remained deeply involved in women’s basketball after retiring from professional play. A beloved figure in the sports world, she has used her platform to inspire young athletes and advocate for mental health awareness, equal pay in sports, and youth development. Despite her many accolades, she has always credited her success to her family’s support—especially her mother’s influence.
In a 2023 interview, Caitlin once said, “Everything I am is because of my mom. She taught me discipline, but more importantly, she taught me kindness. She’s my biggest fan and my greatest role model.”
While Caitlin has yet to make a personal statement today, close sources have indicated she is by her mother’s side and deeply shaken by the situation. The family has canceled all public appearances scheduled for the coming week and has requested that media outlets respect their privacy.
Local residents in Des Moines have already begun showing their support. Flowers and handwritten notes have been placed outside MercyOne Medical Center. A small vigil is being planned by community members and fans at Caitlin’s former high school later tonight.
“We all feel like we know the Clarks,” said local resident and basketball coach Mark Whitaker. “They’ve always represented the best of Iowa—humble, hardworking, and full of heart. We’re praying hard for Anne.”
As of this writing, no further updates have been provided on Anne’s condition. The Clark family has assured the public that they will share more information when appropriate.
For now, all eyes remain on Des Moines, as the world sends love and strength to one of women’s basketball’s most iconic families in their time of need.
