The 2025-2026 college basketball season is right around the corner, which was signaled by the Big Ten Women's Basketball Media Days in Chicago on Wednesday.
The Hawkeyes sent three representatives to Chicago, including Head Coach Jan Jensen, and seniors Hannah Stuelke and Kylie Feuerbach.
Jensen is entering her second season as the Iowa Head Coach, and is really loving what she is seeing from he squad this season.
Before her second season at the helm, Jensen stated that she is more comfortable in her position, and has learned how to handle certain emotions as the season progresses.
During her time at the podium for Big Ten Media Days, she addressed her team's youth, identified the leaders on the squad, and provided a brief look into their strategies heading into next season.
The squad is VERY young
Jensen acknowledged that the squad is very young this year, with nine of the 14 team members being freshmen or sophomores.
She also mentioned that everyone has been working hard, and she loves what she has seen so far, but it will take time to get the new players acclimated.
When she was asked if they could potentially go 10 or 11 players deep, Jensen stated that is a stretch, but they will be deeper later in the season as the new and younger players become more familiar with the expectations and the system.
Four players have stood out as leaders
Every young team will look to upperclassmen for leadership, but the Hawkeyes have strong voices from multiple places.
Jensen noted that Taylor McCabe is "a voice," alongside sophomore Taylor Stremlow and sixth-year senior Kylie Feuerbach.
Jensen was especially happy with the way McCabe has developed her leadership abilities as she continues to contribute in all facets of the game.
Hannah Stuelke was also labeled as a leader of the squad, but she leads more by example. When she talks, she commands attention, but she would rather lead by her play on the court.
Jensen will utilize the Hawkeyes size, depth, and quickness this season
Throughout the offseason, Jensen has been adamant that this year's squad has more size and depth than in the past, and they will utilize both of those aspects this season.
Jensen made a funny quip about being one of the few coaches who still value post play, and they will use their size to dominate in the paint.
The Hawkeyes have good frontcourt size with Stuelke (six-foot-two), Ava Heiden (six-foot-four), and Layla Hayes (six-foot-five), and also have multiple tall guards, including Addie Deal (six-foot), Feuerbach (six-foot), and Stremlow (five-foot-ten).
Jensen stated she loves the frontcourt trio they have and will use their size and versatility against their opponents.
The Hawkeyes have high expectations in year two under Jensen, and have all the pieces in place to make a solid run in the Big Ten, and make their eight consecutive NCAA Tournament.