Coach Jan Jensen’s Statement to Supporters Regarding Not Seeing Jenica Lewis In response to the announcement that Jenica Lewis, the top in-state 2026 prospect, had committed to Notre Dame rather than Iowa, head coach Jan Jensen spoke to the crowd in a measured and contemplative manner, which reflected her long-term goals for the Hawkeyes program.
Jensen reminded supporters that establishing long-term success requires time and trust, and he stressed patience as a guiding principle going forward. With that patience, Jensen stated, “I think we’re planting a lot of seeds for this year, and we’re going to be using a lot of water.” “We’re investing as much in the future as we are in the present—this is a process.”
Jensen noted the shifting dynamics of contemporary recruiting while also expressing disappointment at losing a homegrown talent. She stated that while Iowa will always maintain its Midwest roots, the current environment necessitates a more comprehensive, nationwide strategy. “The recruiting landscape has expanded nationally, but we will always take pride in recruiting from right here in the Midwest,” she said. “We’ve occasionally pursued a lead that wasn’t really ever going to be a Hawkeye or one for a little too long.”
Her voice was one of comprehension rather than annoyance. She reminded everyone that fit, relationships, and shared values are more important in recruiting than star ratings or location. Jensen stated that “there must be some connections and some shared value sets in how a young woman wants to play or what she’s most comfortable playing.” “Finding players who share our values, beliefs, and methods of play is what ultimately makes a Hawkeye.”
Jensen’s message was essentially unambiguous: Iowa will not panic or compromise its identity following the loss of a significant target. Rather, the staff will keep looking for athletes who genuinely want to wear the black and gold—those who embrace the program’s culture, compete with passion, and embody its ideals both on and off the court. Jensen stated that “there must be some connections and some shared value sets in how a young woman wants to play or what she’s most comfortable playing.” “Finding players who share our values, beliefs, and methods of play is what ultimately makes a Hawkeye.”
Jensen’s message was essentially unambiguous: Iowa will not panic or compromise its identity following the loss of a significant target. Rather, the staff will keep looking for athletes who genuinely want to wear the black and gold—those who embrace the program’s culture, compete with passion, and embody its ideals both on and off the court.
