Molly Davis, a former Iowa guard, is back in Carver, but this time she’s on the other side.
Seeing a familiar face on the other bench is surreal, especially if that face used to proudly wear black and gold. For supporters of Iowa women’s basketball, that time is drawing near. Molly Davis, a former guard for the Hawkeyes, will be coaching against the team she helped bring to national prominence when she returns to Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
Fans are simultaneously made to feel proud and nostalgic by this full-circle tale, which seems like it belongs in a sports film. Prior to the 2022–23 season, Davis transferred from Central Michigan to Iowa, where he established himself as a reliable backcourt player during one of the program’s most prosperous periods. Hawkeye fans all over the world loved her for her perseverance, court vision, and willingness to do the little things.
It won’t just be about Xs and Os for Davis when he returns to Iowa City. It will be sentimental. There, she had two incredible seasons filled with deep runs to the NCAA Tournament, boisterous Carver crowds, and innumerable memories with Caitlin Clark, Kate Martin, and Gabbie Marshall, among other legends.
When Davis suffered that devastating knee injury against Ohio State in February of last year, it’s difficult to forget. The arena fell silent in shock as everyone watched her being assisted off the court. But in keeping with her strong character, Davis continued to be an outspoken leader from the bench, coaching younger players and providing a steadying presence during Iowa’s run to the national championship game.
After the playing days are over, that kind of leadership endures. It changes. Davis is currently developing into a teacher of the game, which is precisely what he is doing. In a recent local radio interview, Davis stated, “I owe so much to Iowa.” “Coach Bluder, my teammates, and the supporters all helped to shape who I am today. It will be unique to return there, even as an opponent. In many respects, it is home.
When she enters, the Carver crowd will undoubtedly greet her with open arms. Davis did just that. Hawkeye Nation has always had a soft spot for athletes who give their all on the court. Her new squad will have its hands full on the court as they attempt to contain the Hawkeyes’ reloaded squad. However, don’t be shocked if Davis’ fingerprints appear throughout her team’s strategy. She is the most familiar with Iowa’s system, including its tempo, spacing, and transition rhythm. You can bet that she will give her players an advantage by using that insider knowledge.
Seeing their former point guard, still competing with the same fiery determination that characterized her college career, bark out instructions in a different uniform will be a strange but endearing sight for the Hawkeyes. It’s funny how sports can bring things full circle. This return isn’t about rivalry or retaliation for Molly Davis. It’s about development, thankfulness, and carrying on a journey that began long before she took the court at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
Fans will see more than just a former player when she reenters those tunnel doors. No matter which bench she is on, they will witness a living example of the spirit and unity that define Iowa women’s basketball, and that is something to be proud of.
