CBS NEWS: Sarah Ashlee Barker of Alabama surpasses Caitlin Clark for the most points in the first two seasons and breaks the NCAA scoring record.
February 22, 2025, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Sarah Ashlee Barker, a guard for the Alabama Crimson Tide, has made history for women’s collegiate basketball by being the all-time top scorer through a player’s first two seasons, surpassing Caitlin Clark. Barker’s historic feat has rocked the basketball world and cemented her status as one of the best in the game.
The record was formerly held by Clark, the current WNBA phenomenon and former Iowa Hawkeyes player, who scored an incredible 1,662 points in her freshman and sophomore seasons. But in a commanding performance against an SEC opponent, Barker broke that record by making a mid-range jumper late in the fourth quarter to formally take the title. The Crimson Tide bench flocked around Barker to celebrate the milestone, and the home audience burst into cheers.
A star is Since joining the Crimson Tide from Georgia, 6-foot guard Born Barker, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, has been an invincible force. She has been a key component of Alabama’s offensive arsenal and is well-known for her dynamic scoring abilities, superior court vision, and leadership. She has often put up strong performances this season, averaging more than 25 points per contest and dishing out assists and rebounds.
Her ascent to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. Barker has shown an incredible ability to take control of games from her first game wearing an Alabama uniform. She can score goals whenever she wants and lead her team to significant wins. She is a strong contender for National Player of the Year and has already won several SEC Player of the Week awards.
Responses from the Basketball Community
Barker thanked her teammates, coaches, and the Crimson Tide fan base after the momentous occasion.
“It is a dream realized. It is an honor to be included with Caitlin Clark, who set an amazing standard. However, this is about more than just me; it’s about my coaches, my team, and the amazing support I’ve gotten. In a postgame interview, Barker stated, “We’re just getting started.”
Clark, a current WNBA rising star, also congratulated Barker on the accomplishment on social media.
“The purpose of records is to be broken! Well done, Sarah Ashlee Barker! Keep creating history. Clark made a post.
What Comes Next?
Alabama has never had a greater desire to win a title after Barker’s record-breaking performance. Barker’s leadership will be crucial as the Crimson Tide pursue a national championship and are set for a lengthy run in the NCAA Tournament.
Barker’s unprecedented accomplishment is evidence of the skill and competitiveness in NCAA women’s basketball, which is important as the women’s game continues to expand. Before the season ends, fans nationwide will be eagerly observing to see how much higher she can push the score record.