Iowa Women’s Basketball to Announce New Head Coach Amid Ongoing NCAA Controversy
May 7, 2025 — Iowa City, IA
In a dramatic twist to what has already been a turbulent offseason, the University of Iowa is expected to announce a new head coach for its women’s basketball program this week—amid an active NCAA investigation into alleged recruiting violations and player benefit infractions.
The search for a new leader comes in the wake of longtime head coach Lisa Bluder’s sudden retirement in April, just weeks after leading the Hawkeyes to back-to-back Final Four appearances and a national runner-up finish. While the university publicly cited “personal reasons” for her departure, multiple sources familiar with the situation say the move was partially influenced by the NCAA inquiry, which reportedly centers around improper contact with high school recruits and unauthorized NIL-related activities.
University of Iowa Athletic Director Beth Goetz issued a brief statement Tuesday evening:
“Our women’s basketball program remains one of the premier teams in the nation, and we are confident in the leadership we are bringing in to continue that legacy. While we cannot comment on ongoing NCAA matters, we are fully cooperating with the process and remain committed to compliance and transparency.”
Though the university has not officially named the new coach, insiders suggest the leading candidate is assistant coach Jan Jensen, a longtime Bluder lieutenant known for her recruiting prowess and deep ties to the Iowa program. Jensen, if appointed, would be tasked with navigating a talented but emotionally bruised roster—and doing so under the microscope of both national attention and NCAA scrutiny.
The controversy has overshadowed what should be a period of celebration for the Hawkeyes, who recently graduated one of the most iconic players in women’s college basketball history, Caitlin Clark. The NCAA has not provided a timeline for the conclusion of its investigation, but any sanctions could potentially impact scholarships, recruiting periods, or even postseason eligibility in future seasons.
Still, fans remain hopeful that a swift coaching transition can stabilize the program. “We’ve built something special here,” said junior guard Ava Jones. “Whatever comes next, we’re sticking together.”
