The Iowa women’s basketball program has established itself as a formidable force in the Big Ten since 2000, qualifying for the NCAA Tournament 19 times over the last 25 years. With five Big Ten Tournament championships, multiple National Player of the Year winners, and two appearances in National Championship games, the contributions of many players have shaped this success.

This article presents the All-21st Century Iowa women’s basketball team, featuring a starting lineup, a sixth player, and a head coach, acknowledging only those who played at least one season during the 21st century.

Point Guard: Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark’s impact on Iowa basketball is undeniable. As the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, she has achieved numerous accolades, including being a two-time consensus National Player of the Year and a four-time AP All-American. Her remarkable senior season saw her averaging 31.6 points, 8.9 assists, and 7.4 rebounds per game, cementing her status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Clark was instrumental in guiding Iowa to its first two National Championship game appearances, significantly influencing the popularity of women’s basketball.

Shooting Guard: Kathleen Doyle

A key player from 2016 to 2020, Kathleen Doyle holds a special place in the program’s history. As a two-time All-Big Ten player and the 2019-20 Big Ten Player of the Year, she concluded her collegiate career with an average of 12.5 points, 5.7 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Her ability to assist her teammates and score made her a pivotal figure during her tenure at Iowa.

Small Forward: Kate Martin

Though she may not have the most eye-catching statistics, Kate Martin’s contributions to the team cannot be overstated. Known for her hustle, defense, and key three-pointers, Martin served as a “glue” player, enabling stars like Clark and Monika Czinano to thrive. In her final season, she averaged 13.1 points and 6.8 rebounds, solidifying her place on this team.

Power Forward: Jennie Baranczyk

From 2000 to 2004, Jennie Baranczyk emerged as one of the first great players of this century for Iowa. Averaging 14.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, she earned recognition as a first-team All-Big Ten selection in 2003 and contributed to three NCAA Tournament appearances and a Big Ten Tournament title during her career.

Center: Megan Gustafson

Megan Gustafson is regarded as one of the best players in Iowa women’s basketball history. Ranking second in career points with 2,804 and first in rebounds with 1,460, she was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Year. Her impressive averages of 20.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game highlight her dominance on the court, making her an easy choice as a starting player for this team.

Sixth Player: Monika Czinano

Monika Czinano stands out as an impactful player, averaging 14.8 points and 4.9 rebounds throughout her time at Iowa. A four-time All-Big Ten selection, her excellent chemistry with Caitlin Clark was instrumental in Iowa’s historic run to the National Championship game in 2023.

Head Coach: Lisa Bluder

Lisa Bluder has been the cornerstone of Iowa women’s basketball since 2000, accumulating a remarkable record of 528 wins against 254 losses. Her leadership has led the team to 18 NCAA Tournament appearances and two National Championship games, making her the ideal choice to coach this remarkable ensemble of players.