Iowa has always prided itself on strong ties, and nothing will change that, whether it comes before or after. In addition to WNBA star Caitlin Clark, a special event took place at the school in 2023, when a 12-year-old girl named Krysty Bujakowska was named the “Kid Captain” of the Iowa women’s basketball team.

Krysty is from Coralville, Iowa, and was named the honorary captain for the outdoor women’s basketball game on October 15, 2023 at Kinnick Stadium, a historic and memorable event for the Iowa community. However, despite the joy of the event, Iowa faced a heartbreaking loss when it had to say goodbye to Krysty, who passed away shortly after. Caitlin Clark, the WNBA Rookie of the Year, joined the team to say goodbye and share in the sadness of the loss.

Krysty has been battling a serious form of bone cancer for the past two years. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that primarily affects the long bones in the body, and has fought a valiant battle against the disease. During her treatment, Krysty has been cared for at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

She has endured intense surgeries and treatments, but Krysty’s optimism and courage have always been a great inspiration to those around her, especially the members of the Iowa women’s basketball team.

Although the disease has taken away Krysty’s health, her love for the team and her contributions as a “Kid Captain” will forever be an integral part of Iowa’s history. Throughout her time on the team, Krysty has not only been a source of encouragement to the players, but also a role model of courage and determination.

In honor of Krysty, the Iowa women’s basketball team posted a touching message on Instagram, reflecting on the impact she had on the team: *“Our Kid Captain. We are forever grateful to have you as a part of our team. They say we changed the game, but the truth is you changed us. Rest in peace, sweet Krysty. We love you.”*

Star Caitlin Clark, who recently won the WNBA Rookie of the Year award, also offered her condolences to Krysty’s family and the team. Clark’s message reflected the strong bond and love between her and Krysty, as well as between Clark and the Iowa women’s basketball team.

While Clark’s victories and fame are an integral part of Iowa sports history, Krysty’s passing also made her and her teammates realize that what matters most is not the titles or the victories, but the humanity and deep bonds in the community.

Krysty changed the lives of many in the Iowa community, and her love for basketball and the team will always be remembered. The Iowa women’s basketball team is more than just a team, it is a family, where each member, whether a player or a “Kid Captain,” has a unique and integral impact on their journey. Krysty Bujakowska, though no longer with us, remains an important part of the team’s heart and the Iowa community as a whole.