Iowa athletics has a lot to celebrate as 2025 draws to a close.
The Hawkeyes produced memorable moments in a variety of sports that inspired supporters, filled trophy cases, and solidified legacies. The year demonstrated the depth and power of Beth Goetz’s athletics department, from program-defining choices to historic victories. Five moments stood out above the rest and will be remembered long after the year 2026 has passed, even though there were many highlights.
One of the most poignant and significant days in Iowa women’s basketball history was February 2. The Hawkeyes defeated No. 4 USC 76–69 inside a packed Carver-Hawkeye Arena to record their best victory of the year. With 28 points on 10-of-18 shooting, Lucy Olsen outperformed Trojans star JuJu Watkins. Although the win was one of the first genuine signature victories of the Jan Jensen era, the significance of the evening extended well beyond the outcome.
Following the game, Iowa retired Caitlin Clark’s iconic No. 22 jersey in her honor. The NCAA’s all-time top scorer watched her jersey rise to the rafters while surrounded by coaches, family, and former teammates. In front of the sold-out audience, Clark and former head coach Lisa Bluder gave a moving and appropriate tribute to the best player the program has ever seen.
Iowa women’s wrestling won another national title on March 8, continuing its incredible ascent. The Hawkeyes are still a relatively new program, but they have already made a name for themselves as the best in the sport. Iowa won the team title again at the 2025 National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling Tournament, scoring 201.5 points. The Hawkeyes won three individual national titles and produced an incredible 15 All-Americans. Ten other Iowa wrestlers finished in the top five at their respective weights, and Macey Kilty, Kennedy Blades, and Kylie Welker all finished with perfect seasons. The program has developed into a true powerhouse under head coach Clarissa Chun.
On March 22, men’s wrestling produced a memorable moment of its own. Despite Iowa’s failure to win a team championship, Stephen Buchanan II wrote one of the best tales of the year. The transfer from Oklahoma came to Iowa City with a specific objective in mind: to win a national championship. Buchanan II accomplished that at 197 pounds, defeating Josh Barr of Penn State to win the championship. He became the first national champion at that weight in program history as a result. In addition to being named an All-American and becoming the 86th individual national champion in Iowa history—and the 14th under head coach Tom Brands—Buchanan II finished the season 26-1.
Two days later, on March 24, Iowa men’s basketball made a decision that might have long-term effects on the program. Fran McCaffery’s lengthy tenure came to an end and a new era began when the Hawkeyes appointed Ben McCollum as head coach. After leading the Bulldogs to a 30-win season and an NCAA Tournament victory, McCollum took over for Drake. He immediately established a new identity centered on defense and a more deliberate pace, bringing with him a number of significant transfers. Iowa is currently 10-2 and ranked No. 23 in the country, indicating encouraging early results. The hiring might prove to be one of Beth Goetz’s best choices if the current trend continues.
The last great moment occurred on September 13, when Kirk Ferentz further cemented his legacy in the annals of college football. Ferentz surpassed Ohio State great Woody Hayes to become the most successful head coach in Big Ten history with a commanding 47-7 victory over UMass. Ferentz’s Iowa career now stands at 206 wins, a total he continued to increase throughout the season. Ferentz is currently ranked 17th all-time nationally with 212 career victories, just three wins behind Bill Snyder. Ferentz’s ascent up the all-time list is not yet complete because he has promised to return the following season. It was a significant achievement deserving of one of Hawkeye’s greatest leaders.
When combined, these moments encapsulate the essence of Iowa athletics in 2025. Although rankings and championships were important, they weren’t the only things that mattered. They had to do with momentum, belief, and legacy. Fans witnessed leaders steer their programs forward, newcomers emerge, and icons are honored. The Hawkeyes continuously demonstrated pride and purpose, from the din inside Carver-Hawkeye Arena to the grind of the wrestling mat and the steady presence on the football sidelines. Everyone was reminded of what long-term success looks like during this year, which also gave Hawkeye athletics supporters hope, enthusiasm, and confidence for the future.
