When the Iowa Hawkeyes lost to Louisiana State University in the NCAA championship in March, it was a tough blow for the team. However, the months that followed brought even more difficult news. While it was expected that star player Caitlin Clark would leave for the WNBA, few could have predicted the retirement of Iowa Head Coach Lisa Bluder.
The news of Bluder’s retirement came as a shock to many, especially since it coincided with Clark’s draft into the WNBA in April. Some speculated that Clark’s decision to turn pro may have played a role in Bluder’s retirement. However, Jan Jensen, the associate head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes, has denied any connection between the two events.
In a recent interview, Jensen stated that Bluder’s retirement was a personal decision and had nothing to do with Clark’s draft. She emphasized that Bluder had been contemplating retirement for a while and that it was a well-thought-out decision. Jensen also added that Bluder’s retirement was not a result of any conflicts or disagreements within the team.
Jensen’s statement is a testament to the strong bond and mutual respect between Bluder and her coaching staff. Bluder has been the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes for 21 years and has built a successful program during her tenure. She has led the team to 10 NCAA tournament appearances and has been named Big Ten Coach of the Year four times. Her dedication and hard work have earned her the respect and admiration of her players and colleagues.
Bluder’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Iowa Hawkeyes. She has been a constant presence on the sidelines, guiding and mentoring her players both on and off the court. Her passion for the game and her commitment to her players have been instrumental in the team’s success. Her retirement will undoubtedly leave a void in the Iowa Hawkeyes’ program, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.
As for Caitlin Clark, her decision to enter the WNBA draft was a no-brainer. The 19-year-old guard had an outstanding season with the Hawkeyes, averaging 26.7 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game. She was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and was a unanimous selection for the All-Big Ten First Team. Clark’s talent and potential have caught the attention of the WNBA, and she was drafted second overall by the New York Liberty.
Clark’s departure is undoubtedly a loss for the Iowa Hawkeyes, but it is also a testament to the program’s success. Under Bluder’s leadership, the team has consistently produced top-notch players who have gone on to excel at the professional level. Clark’s draft into the WNBA is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the coaching staff and the players.
While Bluder’s retirement and Clark’s departure may have come as a surprise, it is also an opportunity for the Iowa Hawkeyes to regroup and continue their winning tradition. The team has a strong foundation, and with the right leadership, they can continue to achieve success on the court.
The Iowa Hawkeyes have already taken the first step in finding a new head coach by promoting Jan Jensen to associate head coach. Jensen has been an integral part of the team for the past 21 years and has played a significant role in the team’s success. Her promotion is a testament to her dedication and expertise, and she is more than capable of leading the team to continued success.
In conclusion, while the Iowa Hawkeyes may have faced some tough news in the past few months, there is still a lot to be optimistic about. Bluder’s retirement and Clark’s departure may have marked the end of an era, but they also pave the way for a new chapter in the team’s history. The Iowa Hawkeyes have a strong foundation, and with the right leadership and determination, they can continue to achieve greatness on the court.
