The Caitlin Clark Era at Iowa is officially coming to a close, marking the end of a chapter that catapulted the Hawkeyes into the national spotlight. But here’s where it gets emotional: as the curtain falls on this iconic era, four players who were part of Clark’s legacy—Hannah Stuelke, Kylie Feuerbach, Taylor McCabe, and Jada Gyamfi—will take the court for their final season, leaving behind a trail of inspiration for countless young athletes across Iowa. And this is the part most people miss: their stories are not just about basketball; they’re about growth, resilience, and the power of teamwork.
From 2021 to 2024, these players helped Iowa reach unprecedented heights, including two national championship games in 2023 and 2024. Their journey has been nothing short of remarkable, turning them into role models for kids from Iowa City to Dyersville. Each player brings a unique personality and skill set to the court, and their collective bond is a testament to the program’s culture.
Hannah Stuelke, though soft-spoken, lets her game do the talking. Since joining in 2022, she’s become a fan favorite with her tenacious rebounding, finesse with the ball, and lightning-quick speed. Her accolades include being named the Big Ten Sixth Player of the Year in 2023, earning two Second Team All-Big Ten selections, and becoming the 44th player in program history to score 1,000 points. Her career-high 47 points against Penn State in 2024 remains unforgettable. Head coach Jan Jensen notes Stuelke’s growing confidence, both on and off the court, as she steps out of her comfort zone.
Kylie Feuerbach, a “super senior” in her sixth and final season, is coming off her most productive year yet. Leading the team with 43 steals and averaging a career-best 6.7 points per game, Feuerbach embodies coachability and dedication. She hopes to be remembered as a player who embraced any role for the team’s success.
Taylor McCabe has transformed from a bench player into a premier perimeter shooter. Her journey is a testament to hard work, as she became the 21st Hawkeye to hit 100 career 3-pointers. McCabe aspires to be a lasting example of what it means to master the role of a pure shooter.
Jada Gyamfi, with her infectious smile and passion, has brought joy to the program both on and off the court. While her playing time has been limited, her impact extends beyond the game. Gyamfi is building a brand through her podcast, Get Ready with Jada Gyamfi, where she showcases her broadcasting talents and features teammates. Balancing her pursuits in teaching and media, she’s a prime example of chasing multiple dreams.
Controversial question: As the Hawkeyes transition to a younger roster, can they maintain the momentum built during the Caitlin Clark Era? With over half the team comprised of freshmen and sophomores, the future is uncertain but full of potential. Coach Jan Jensen, entering her second full season, has already proven her leadership, guiding the team to a Sweet 16 appearance in her first year. But with such a young squad, will experience be their Achilles’ heel, or will it pave the way for a new dynasty?
This season isn’t about replacing the old with the new; it’s about building on the foundation laid by Clark and her teammates. Ranked No. 21 in the AP preseason poll, Iowa kicks off their campaign on November 3 against Southern University at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. What do you think? Can this young team rise to the occasion, or will they struggle to fill the shoes of their predecessors? Let us know in the comments!
