Caitlin Clark needs just eight points to become the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, and she will most likely break the record on Thursday against Michigan.

“I’m excited, I think it’s going to be a very special night,” Clark said. “I think my main focus is going out there and having fun and having a blast with my teammates and enjoying it.”

Some have wondered if this chase has been a distraction.

“I haven’t really felt that at all,” Clark said. “For me it’s just the excitement, no matter what record I’ve broke or not broke. I’m not really anxious about it all, I’m excited.”

Clark has led Iowa to a national championship game along with setting countless personal records. She dreamed of doing big things — but never quite this big.

“I’m somebody with big dreams, goals and aspirations, but to put it on this level or this magnitude would be crazy,” Clark said. “I think that’s really hard to dream.”

Not only does Clark get to break the record, but it will almost certainly happen in front of the fans that have watched her grow from freshman prodigy to a national superstar. Clark has plenty of family members — and even her old high school coach is coming to see the show.

“It’s always nice to be able to play in front of so many family and friends — that’s one of the reasons I came here.”

For more Hawkeyes coverage, follow @BlakeHornTV and @HawkeyeHQ on Twitter and Facebook. You can find Hawkeye Headquarters at HawkeyeHQ.com all season.