Caitlin Clark’s impact on the Iowa Hawkeyes went beyond her record-breaking performances—she was also a key leader on and off the court. Now, with her departure, Iowa’s coach has acknowledged that the team is struggling to fill the leadership gap left behind.
Clark, who was the face of the program during her time at Iowa, set the tone with her competitive spirit, work ethic, and ability to elevate her teammates. Her presence provided a sense of direction and confidence, making her absence even more noticeable as the team adjusts to a new era.
While the Hawkeyes still have talented players ready to step up, replacing Clark’s leadership is proving to be a challenge. Her ability to command the floor, motivate teammates, and deliver in clutch moments was a rare combination that made Iowa a powerhouse during her tenure.
The coaching staff is now focused on developing new leaders within the team, encouraging players to embrace larger roles both in performance and leadership. The transition will take time, but the program remains committed to maintaining the high standards set during Clark’s era.
As Iowa moves forward, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see who emerges as the next leader to guide the team through this period of change.
