IOWA CITY, Iowa (KWQC) – Iowa Women’s Basketball enters a new era of the program after its transformation in the offseason.
The Hawkeyes head into the 2024 season without Caitlin Clark, Kate Martin, Gabbie Marshall, and former head coach Lisa Bluder.
First year head coach Jan Jensen says she is excited for this next chapter and the future for the program.
“Some of us have been here all those years ago and last year, and the ones that have signed up that weren’t here last year, the one thing we all have in common is we are so excited that we got next,” said Jensen. “I think we’re just all focused on the future. I’ve really enjoyed getting this team collectively together.”
It’s been an adjustment for the team but they can’t wait to start the season.
“Obviously we have a lot of new pieces to the team so just having that mentality of next of we’ve got next, the person next to me has next, coach has next,” said Kylie Feuerbach, Senior Guard. “Obviously like I said, lots of new and we’re just excited for this season and all the news roles that are going to be in there.”
Senior guard Sydney Affolter is entering her senior season with the Hawkeyes and says they’ll need to fill the gap scoring wise.
“With the scoring that left the previous years there’s a lot to fill and I think you know we’re not going to have someone shooting from the logo anymore unfortunately,” said Affolter. “I think definitely stepping up in our defense is super important. Same philosophies as last year but change it up a little.”
Junior forward Hannah Stuelke is ready to step up and fill a big time role for the Hawkeyes.
“I’m ready to get out there and show everybody what I’ve got,” said Stuelke. “I think a lot of people are doubting that we’ll be good since Cailtin is gone and I think I was right there behind her for most of the games she’d have 35 I’d have 20. I’m just excited to show people what I’ve got now that I’ve got more opportunity.”
Even though this is a young and developing team, Coach Jensen says she’s focused on continuing to have a great experience.
The Hawkeyes have an exhibition game against Missouri Western at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Oct. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Iowa tips off their regular season against Northern Illinois at Carver-Hawkeye Arena on Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m.
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