Caitlin Clark is already lighting up the pro courts with her long-range threes and a personality bigger than any stadium. But even with her star firmly on the rise, she hasn’t forgotten her Iowa roots. A recent reunion proves just that, as Clark joined her former Iowa teammates Gabbie Marshall and Kate Martin to celebrate the birthday of Janie Jensen, daughter of new Hawkeyes head coach Jan Jensen. And, naturally, the photos reveal all the laughs, a bit of friendly trash talk, and the unmistakable bond this squad shares.
Now, Jan Jensen isn’t just any Iowa coach. She was the woman behind the scenes for 24 years as an associate coach before stepping up to lead the Hawkeyes after Lisa Bluder’s retirement. Jensen is practically a Hawkeye institution, and Clark’s been known to poke fun at her on the court. “I always give her cr-p and tell her to shoot at practice,” Clark laughed in a recent interview. “She finally did one day—pulled out this weird hook shot like I’ve never seen. I told her, ‘Stick to coaching, Coach.’”
The reunion was documented on social media, with Jan Jensen posting pictures of Clark and the team, beaming ear to ear. “Fun night having some of our Hawks in town!” she wrote, proving that even though Clark’s now WNBA royalty, she’s still part of the Hawkeye family.
Jensen and Clark’s playful relationship is beloved by Iowa fans. While Jensen is known for her dedication, she’s also famous for taking a backseat in her own popularity contest. According to Clark, Coach Jay’s phone is blowing up more than hers. “People love her to death,” Clark said, half-admitting defeat. “She’s way more popular than me.”
And Clark’s smack-talking hasn’t ended with Iowa. Apparently, she’s just as vocal in the WNBA, with Las Vegas coach Becky Hammon even commenting that “No one talks more cr-p than Caitlin.” Iowa fans are thrilled to watch her carry that unapologetic attitude into the pros, while Jensen is back home, likely shaking her head with pride and a little exasperation.
It’ll be interesting to see if Jensen’s new tenure as head coach keeps Iowa’s game sharp and if Clark’s influence carries on. One thing’s for sure: with Jensen’s coaching chops and Clark’s famous confidence, the Hawkeyes’ future looks nothing short of legendary.
