The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team has a rich history, marked by remarkable achievements and influential figures who have shaped the program’s legacy.
Established in 1974, the team experienced significant growth under head coach C. Vivian Stringer, who led the Hawkeyes from 1983 to 1995. During her tenure, Iowa secured six Big Ten championships and made nine NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four berth in 1993. A historic moment came on February 3, 1985, when a record-setting 22,157 fans watched Iowa play Ohio State at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, reflecting the program’s rising prominence.
In 2000, Lisa Bluder took over as head coach, ushering in a new era of success. Under her guidance, the Hawkeyes clinched multiple Big Ten regular-season and tournament titles. A standout player during Bluder’s tenure was Megan Gustafson, who played from 2015 to 2019. Gustafson was named the 2019 National Player of the Year, averaging 27.8 points and 13.4 rebounds per game, and leading Iowa to the Elite Eight that same year.
The 2022–23 season marked another milestone with the emergence of Caitlin Clark, whose dynamic play captivated audiences nationwide. Clark’s performances contributed to a surge in ticket sales and television viewership, a phenomenon dubbed the “Caitlin Clark effect.” She led the Hawkeyes to the Final Four for the first time in three decades, solidifying her status as one of the nation’s premier players.
In October 2023, the Hawkeyes set a new attendance record for women’s basketball, with 55,646 fans attending the “Crossover at Kinnick” event at Kinnick Stadium. This exhibition game showcased the team’s growing popularity and the community’s support. Clark recorded a triple-double during the game, further cementing her legacy.
The 2024–25 season brought significant changes. Lisa Bluder retired in May 2024 after a storied career, and longtime assistant coach Jan Jensen was promoted to head coach. Under Jensen’s leadership, the Hawkeyes continued to excel, pulling off a notable upset against No. 24 Michigan State in the Big Ten Tournament, with Lucy Olsen scoring 21 points to lead Iowa to a 74–61 victory.
Throughout its history, the Iowa women’s basketball program has demonstrated resilience, excellence, and a commitment to growth, continually inspiring fans and setting new standards in collegiate athletics.
