When the Iowa Hawkeyes faced defeat at the hands of Louisiana State University in the NCAA championship back in March, little did they know that more tough news was yet to come. While it was expected that star player Caitlin Clark would leave for the WNBA, the announcement of Iowa Head Coach Lisa Bluder’s retirement in April came as a shock to many.
Bluder had been at the helm of the Hawkeyes’ women’s basketball program for 21 years, leading the team to 10 NCAA tournament appearances and a Big Ten regular-season title. Her retirement was met with mixed emotions from both players and fans alike. Many wondered if Clark’s decision to go pro had influenced Bluder’s choice to retire.
However, Bluder’s longtime assistant coach Jan Jensen has come forward to address these rumors. In an exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, Jensen denied that Clark’s departure had any impact on Bluder’s decision to retire. She emphasized that Bluder’s retirement was a personal and well-thought-out decision, and not a spur-of-the-moment reaction to Clark’s draft into the WNBA.
Jensen also revealed that Bluder had been contemplating retirement for a while now, and that it was only a matter of time before she made the announcement. Bluder had always been a fiercely dedicated coach, pouring her heart and soul into the Hawkeyes’ program. But with over two decades of hard work and success, she felt it was time to pass the baton and move on to the next chapter of her life.
As for Clark’s decision to go pro, Jensen expressed nothing but pride and support for her star player. She acknowledged that Clark had been a huge part of the Hawkeyes’ success and that she had nothing but love and gratitude for her contributions to the team. Jensen also spoke highly of Clark’s character and work ethic, stating that she had no doubt that Clark would excel at the next level.
Jensen also addressed the challenges that come with losing a star player like Clark. She admitted that there was no denying Clark’s talent and that she would be missed on the court. However, she also stressed that the Hawkeyes’ program was built on a strong foundation and that they were fully capable of overcoming this loss.
Jensen highlighted the fact that the Hawkeyes had a talented and dedicated group of players, both returning and incoming, who were ready to step up and fill the void left by Clark’s departure. She also mentioned that the team was looking forward to welcoming a new head coach and that they were excited about the future of the program.
In the wake of Bluder’s retirement and Clark’s departure, many have questioned the future of the Hawkeyes’ women’s basketball program. But Jensen’s words serve as a reminder that this team is resilient and determined to continue their legacy of success. While Bluder’s retirement marks the end of an era, it also presents an opportunity for new beginnings and growth.
Jensen’s positive outlook and unwavering support for the team and its players are a testament to the strong culture and values that Bluder has instilled in the Hawkeyes’ program. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they do so with the knowledge that they have a solid foundation and a bright future ahead.
In the end, it is clear that Bluder’s retirement was a well-earned and deserved decision, and that Clark’s departure was simply a natural progression in her career. The Hawkeyes’ program may be going through some changes, but one thing remains constant – their determination to succeed and their unwavering support for one another.
As fans, let us continue to support and believe in the Hawkeyes as they embark on this new journey. And to Lisa Bluder, we say thank you for everything you have done for the Iowa Hawkeyes’ women’s basketball program. Your legacy will forever be remembered and cherished.
