Lisa Bluder speaks out on criticism around Caitlin Clark, reveals her favorite women’s NCAA player

Lisa Bluder Discusses Caitlin Clark, Iowa Basketball, and Changes in College Sports

Retirement and Family Life
Retirement has been a refreshing change for Lisa Bluder. She now spends more time with her family, attends her son’s Division 3 basketball games, and helps her daughter plan her wedding. She’s even trying out pickleball!

Caitlin Clark’s Impact
Bluder praised Caitlin Clark, Iowa’s basketball sensation, for handling immense pressure with grace. Despite being only 22, Clark has achieved remarkable milestones, including being named Time’s Female Athlete of the Year. Bluder acknowledges the challenges of public scrutiny but emphasizes Clark’s resilience and the team’s efforts to focus on their goals, avoiding distractions.

When addressing criticism, such as remarks from Sheila Johnson, co-owner of the Washington Mystics, Bluder was firm: “It’s silly to detract from someone who’s revolutionizing women’s sports.” She likened Clark’s influence to Billie Jean King’s, calling for collective support to amplify Clark’s positive impact on athletics.

Mentorship and Transition
Bluder credited Clark’s grounded nature to her family and strong goal-oriented mindset. Her former associate, Jan Jensen, now Iowa’s head coach, has continued the program’s tradition of excellence. Despite a young roster, the team’s 9-2 record reflects their potential, especially in the fiercely competitive Big Ten.

Bluder expressed pride in Jensen’s dedication, noting her 24 years with the program and her decision to stay despite other offers. “Iowa’s deep tradition in women’s basketball makes it special,” she said.

Current Favorites in Women’s Hoops
Bluder is excited to watch players like Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and Iowa’s Hannah Stuelke. She also enjoys seeing Villanova transfer Lucy Olsen shine for the Hawkeyes.

Kate Martin’s Next Chapter
Bluder praised Kate Martin’s rise, highlighting her upcoming rookie season with the Golden State Valkyries. Martin’s love for the game and relentless effort resonate with fans and players alike.

On NIL and College Sports
Bluder expressed mixed feelings about the rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and revenue sharing in college sports. While she supports athletes earning from their personal brands, she fears that revenue sharing could harm Olympic sports by reallocating funds. “The money has to come from somewhere,” she noted.

The Future of Women’s Basketball
Bluder is optimistic about the upcoming Unrivaled League for women’s basketball, which will provide WNBA players with competitive opportunities in the U.S. during the offseason. She sees this as a chance for athletes like Martin to face elite talent year-round, ultimately benefiting the WNBA’s growth and exposure.