Lisa Bluder, the head coach of the Iowa women’s basketball team, has announced her retirement after 24 years leading the program. Her retirement comes just after Iowa lost its second consecutive national championship game to South Carolina. Bluder, who also coached at Drake for 10 years, finishes her career with a record of 716-359. Former Hawkeyes star Caitlin Clark, who is getting ready to make her debut with the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, congratulated Bluder on her retirement, calling her the best at building a team.
Bluder’s longtime assistant Jan Jensen has been named as her successor, taking over for the 2024-25 season. Jensen has been an assistant under Bluder for 20 years and was also with her at Drake. She was an All-American at Drake and holds the record for the highest scoring player ever in six-on-six basketball at El Horn-Kimballton High School in Iowa. Bluder expressed her confidence in Jensen’s ability to lead the program, stating that there is no better person for the job and that she is committed to helping Jensen and her staff in any capacity they need moving forward.
In an open letter to fans, Bluder reflected on the past season and the accomplishments of the team, expressing her gratitude for their support. She shared that she had spent time with the student-athletes and coaches reviewing the season and preparing those moving on for the future. After spending time away with her husband, Bluder felt it was time for her to step aside and explore what the future holds for her family. Bluder’s retirement means the end of an era for Iowa women’s basketball, as she leaves behind a legacy of success and championship victories.
Throughout her tenure, Bluder led Iowa to five Big Ten Tournament championships and was named Big Ten Coach of the Year three times. She was also recognized as the 2019 Naismith College Coach of the Year. Her impact on the program and the players she coached is evident in the outpouring of support and well-wishes following her retirement announcement. Clark, who is set to begin her professional career in the WNBA, credited Bluder for believing in her and helping her grow as a player, stating that her retirement is well-deserved.
As Jensen prepares to take over as head coach, she will inherit a program with a strong foundation established by Bluder. With her experience as an assistant under Bluder and her own impressive playing career, Jensen is poised to continue the success of Iowa women’s basketball. Bluder’s retirement marks the end of a successful chapter for the program, but the future looks bright under Jensen’s leadership. Fans and supporters of Iowa women’s basketball can look forward to seeing the team continue to thrive under the guidance of a new head coach.
