In a scene that could only be described as the perfect blend of heartfelt and hilariously awkward, Caitlin Clark, Gabbie Marshall, and Kate Martin—three legends of the Iowa Hawkeyes—were honored at Kinnick Stadium during the football team’s homecoming game against Northwestern. As fans showered them with a standing ovation, one couldn’t help but wonder: did the football players also get a few tears in their helmets?
The star of the moment, Jada Gyamfi, took to Instagram to share her feelings, posting photos from the event with the caption: “This one means the most🤍.” Meanwhile, Clark decided to drop a casual “Love you” in the comments section—because what better way to show your appreciation than with a phrase that sounds like it belongs on a Hallmark card?
As the trio of stars basked in the glow of fan appreciation, it’s worth noting that Clark, Martin, and Marshall were crucial in leading the Hawkeyes to back-to-back NCAA championship games and a thrilling three-peat of Big Ten Championships. And let’s be real—who needs a crystal ball when you have championship rings to predict a bright future?
But as they move on to new adventures—Clark and Martin heading to the WNBA and Marshall graduating—the Hawkeyes face some serious growing pains. New head coach Jan Jensen has taken the helm after Lisa Bluder’s retirement, and let’s just say, the pressure is on. Jensen, ever the optimist, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to navigate the season, stating, “It’s the new opportunity.” Because nothing says “we’re ready” quite like a brand-new playbook and a prayer.
Enter Jada Gyamfi, who shared her mixed emotions about the senior trio’s departure. “That first day I was super emotional trying not to show it,” she admitted, a sentiment that could easily be the tagline for every high school graduation ever. “It is so weird looking over and not seeing (Clark) there.” Ah yes, the classic case of ‘where did my besties go?’—perfect for a Netflix teen drama.
As Gyamfi gears up to fill those oversized shoes, she’s been honing her leadership skills. After spending countless hours with the seniors, she’s ready to take on more responsibility. “Everyone always talks about Kate being the best leader,” Gyamfi noted. “And she genuinely is the best person, the best leader.” It’s a good thing the team won’t be needing an emotional support animal—Gyamfi seems ready to step up.
So, as the Iowa Hawkeyes prepare for a season filled with change and the haunting absence of their superstar trio, one thing’s for sure: we can’t wait to see how this plot twist unfolds. Will they soar to new heights, or will they find themselves tangled in a web of nostalgia? Stay tuned, folks—it’s bound to be a wild ride!