The Iowa women’s basketball team’s journey to the Final Four has been a long and challenging one, but they have finally achieved their goal, thanks to their hard work, perseverance, and a strong bond of friendship. Jan Jensen, associate head coach of the team, and Jenni Fitzgerald, special assistant to the head coach, have been close friends and coaches with head coach Lisa Bluder for over two decades. They joined Bluder at Iowa in 2000 with the hopes of reaching the Final Four. After years of struggle and hard work, their dream has finally come true in 2023.
Iowa Beats Top Teams to Reach the Final Four
The Hawkeyes had to compete against some of the top teams in women’s college basketball, including Stanford and UConn, to achieve this remarkable feat. Despite facing tough competition, they kept their spirits high and continued to push themselves further. The team’s success proves their determination and talent on the court.
Loyalty to Coaching Staff and Program
Jensen and Fitzgerald have shown remarkable loyalty to Bluder and the program despite having opportunities to leave Iowa for other coaching jobs. With their help, Bluder has won over 800 games, making her one of 15 Division I coaches with this accomplishment. She has more wins than any other Iowa men’s or women’s basketball coach.
Final Four Appearance Solidifies Bluder’s Place in Hall of Fame
Bluder’s impressive resume is further enhanced with the Hawkeyes’ recent Final Four appearance. Her coaching ability, leadership skills, and dedication to developing young players has made her one of Iowa’s best coaches in history. Her place in the Hall of Fame is already secured.
Jensen Overcomes Tragedy for Elite Eight Win
Jan Jensen experienced the lowest of lows and highest of highs leading to the Elite Eight win. Her father passed away on the morning of the Iowa Hawkeyes’ biggest game. However, Jensen’s father’s dream was to watch his daughter’s team play until the very end. His passing provided Jensen with unexpected motivation and confidence that they could win the game. They did, and after the Hawkeyes’ victory, Jensen climbed the ladder to cut down the nets and pointed to the heavens knowing her father was watching.
Childhood Friendship Inspires Support for Final Four
Jensen’s friendship with Cami Christensen has been strong since their childhood in Elk Horn, Iowa. Christensen is now the GM and president of Westgate Las Vegas and is rooting for Jensen’s team in the women’s Final Four in Dallas. Jensen has been with the Iowa women’s program for 23 seasons and helped lead the team to 21 postseason appearances. The two recently reunited in Seattle after Jensen’s father passed away and watched Iowa defeat Louisville in the Elite Eight.
Westgate Sportsbook Hosts Watch Parties for Iowa Fans
During the tournament, Christensen usually hosts watch parties for Iowa Hawkeyes at Westgate SuperBook. Westgate Sportsbook is now considered as an unofficial Hawkeye hoops headquarters in Las Vegas.
In conclusion, the success of the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team is not just a result of their skills on the court but also a testament to their dedication, loyalty, perseverance, and strong bonds of friendship that have been forged along the way. Their journey is an inspiration to all who follow college basketball, reminding us that success always comes from hard work, teamwork, and a never-give-up attitude.
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