Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball head coach Lisa Bluder is announcing her retirement, marking the end of a distinguished coaching career.
Bluder, who guided Iowa to consecutive national title game appearances alongside standout guard Caitlin Clark, leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of women’s basketball.
On Monday afternoon, Bluder made the unexpected announcement of her decision to step down from her position.
In a statement, the program hailed Bluder as a “Basketball Icon,” “Legendary Leader,” and “All-Time Great,” acknowledging her significant contributions to the sport.
Clark posted a heartfelt message on X regarding Bluder’s retirement.
Simply no one better at building a team… Thank you for believing in me more than anyone
Enjoy retirement, coach. Very much deserved
Bluder’s retirement news coincides with the eve of Caitlin Clark’s WNBA debut, adding an unexpected twist to the Hawkeyes’ upcoming season.
With Clark’s departure, Iowa was anticipated to face challenges in the 2024-25 season, particularly without her leadership at point guard.
However, despite this transition, some projections still placed the team among the top 25 in the nation.
Bluder also gave a statement which Clark resposted.
“It has been the honor of my career to be a part of the Iowa Hawkeye family, and to lead a women’s basketball program filled with so many talented and remarkable young women, who have gone on to do great things in their careers, and more importantly, in their lives…”
Bluder had been the Hawkeyes’ head basketball coach since the 2000 season.
