The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team is navigating a transformative period following the departure of standout players Caitlin Clark, Kate Martin, Gabbie Marshall, and Molly Davis. The loss of these key contributors has posed significant challenges, as evidenced by the team’s current standing at 15-7 overall and 5-6 in the Big Ten Conference.
A recent highlight in the Hawkeyes’ season was their 76-69 victory over the fourth-ranked USC Trojans on February 2, 2025. This win not only ended a five-game losing streak but also showcased the potential of the team’s new lineup. Lucy Olsen, a transfer from Villanova, delivered an impressive performance, scoring 28 points, her highest since joining Iowa. Addison O’Grady, one of the few remaining players from the previous championship runs, emphasized the significance of this victory, stating, “Today really showed us how good we can be. That we can win and we can stay in any game, with any team. That we’re really good.”
The transition has been overseen by head coach Jan Jensen, who took the helm following Lisa Bluder’s retirement in May 2024. Jensen, a long-time assistant under Bluder, brings continuity to the program during this rebuilding phase. Reflecting on the win against USC, Jensen remarked, “I think it really will help us with that belief. I hope we’ll keep stacking wins, but I think (it’s about) the future, building into next year and the following.”
The Hawkeyes are focusing on integrating a talented group of freshmen with their seasoned players. While this blend has led to some growing pains, the team is optimistic about its trajectory. Caitlin Clark, whose jersey was retired following the USC game, expressed her confidence in the program’s direction: “The freshman class, to me, is what’s really exciting. You can tell they’re freshmen, they’re going to be inexperienced at times. But you learn through that and you grow through that.”
Looking ahead, Iowa faces a challenging schedule with upcoming games against Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio State, and top-ranked UCLA. Currently positioned 12th in the Big Ten, the Hawkeyes have work to do to secure an NCAA tournament berth. However, with their recent performances and a focus on development, the team is building a foundation for future success.
In summary, while the post-Caitlin Clark era has presented challenges for Iowa women’s basketball, recent victories and the emergence of new talent indicate a promising path forward.
