Iowa Women 3-1-24
Iowa press conference
Category
🥇
SportsTranscript
00:00 >> I'll start with questions for Sharon.
00:02 >> Why are you here today?
00:09 >> I figured that would be the first question.
00:14 You know, it was not an easy decision at all.
00:17 It wasn't something that I made lightly.
00:19 It wasn't something that took me, you know,
00:21 a couple hours to decide.
00:22 It was a long process and a long decision.
00:24 Talked to a lot of family, friends, and everybody.
00:28 But, you know, I've had -- I've been very blessed
00:31 with the past four years here.
00:32 Just to be here at this time with the people
00:35 that are in this circle.
00:36 And that's been such a big blessing from the Lord.
00:40 I'm so thankful to be able to have been here during this time.
00:42 But also very excited for what's coming next.
00:45 And just made the best decision for me at this time.
00:48 >> What's coming next?
00:49 >> Nursing school at some point.
00:51 Been doing prerequisites for that.
00:53 And, yeah, excited for that.
00:57 >> So are you -- you're done at Iowa?
00:59 Is that what you're saying?
01:01 >> Yes.
01:01 >> Are you staying in school here?
01:03 Or are you --
01:04 >> I'll finish out the semester, obviously.
01:06 And then probably -- I guess probably won't be doing nursing
01:11 school here.
01:11 Most likely somewhere else for an accelerated program
01:15 that I can do in about a year.
01:16 >> When did your teammates know?
01:19 >> Just two days ago was when I kind of came
01:24 to my final consensus and let the team know.
01:26 They were all very supportive.
01:27 And I couldn't have expected or asked
01:30 for a better response from them.
01:32 >> Are you going to the portal?
01:34 >> No, I am not.
01:36 >> What do you think of Sunday?
01:39 >> I am excited for it.
01:40 And, you know, I wasn't -- the whole --
01:42 at the beginning of the year, I wasn't expecting
01:44 for this to be my senior night.
01:45 But now I'm excited for it.
01:46 And I think it will just be such a beautiful night
01:51 to honor the people that are leaving now.
01:54 And to honor what has happened here the past four years.
01:57 It's been incredible.
01:57 >> How has the -- have these four years impacted your life?
02:01 What -- are you different -- a different kind of person?
02:05 >> That's a big question.
02:06 I had a very big life event happen right before I came here.
02:10 So to think of the growth that has happened the past four years
02:15 is humbling and -- sorry --
02:21 thankful for all the people that have been around me.
02:24 Yeah, I've seen a lot of growth in myself.
02:28 The Lord has been very faithful in me for four years.
02:31 And, yeah, like I said, to have the community around me
02:33 that I did during that time and in that transition
02:36 when my family couldn't be as close to me anymore,
02:38 it's meant the world.
02:40 >> Talked about the adversity that, you know, happened before
02:47 and even during your Iowa career.
02:48 I mean, how have you kind of been able to grow from that?
02:51 And how were you able to kind of overcome the adversity to get
02:53 to a point now where you're happy and just kind
02:55 of everything else like that?
02:56 >> Yeah, that's all my fate.
02:58 Like I said, God has been so faithful.
03:01 I mean, he is really -- I write audience at one
03:03 on my hand for every game.
03:04 That's -- and it's kind of based off of my mom, too.
03:08 But he is the sole reason that I'm here today.
03:11 He is -- every breath that I breathe is
03:13 from him and his grace.
03:14 And, you know, with all of the hardships that I faced
03:19 that when my mom passed away to an ACL injury
03:22 to just the mental battles that everybody
03:24 on this team has faced playing basketball.
03:26 He is my sole source of sustain -- he is what sustains me.
03:31 He is my every breath, like I said.
03:33 >> What do you think you'll miss most?
03:35 >> Gosh. And that's a lot of things.
03:40 You know, I think this circle, we preach it all the time.
03:46 But just the circle that we have and the relationships
03:48 that we've built because of the highs and lows
03:51 that we've experienced.
03:52 You don't get strong relationships
03:55 or good team chemistry from, you know,
03:57 an easy walk to the Final Four.
03:59 It comes from the battles and the losses.
04:02 And I think just even off the court, you know,
04:06 there's when we see each other go through struggles,
04:09 building those close relationships.
04:11 And then just the, you know, from hanging out at the dorms
04:15 when I was freshman year to the different roommates
04:19 that you have at hotels for every single away trip
04:21 to team dinners, recruiting visits.
04:22 I don't know.
04:23 It's all fun and I'm going to miss all those little things.
04:25 >> What is it about nursing school that grabbed you?
04:29 >> Nursing school and nursing
04:31 in general is a very mobile occupation.
04:33 You can go anywhere with it.
04:35 You can work.
04:36 You can not work.
04:37 You can keep up your license.
04:38 Just the flexibility of it really stood out to me
04:42 and my sister was a nurse.
04:42 So I might just be following her.
04:44 >> When you look back on these past four years,
04:47 is there any memory that sticks out more
04:50 than anything, I mean, certainly there was a lot of memories.
04:53 >> Yes. This might just be the basic answer, but, you know,
04:59 last year that run that we had to the final four,
05:01 it was such a joy for me to be able
05:05 to see the five starters last year
05:08 that we had for those three years.
05:10 To see those five starters do that and accomplish that
05:14 and the whole team too, but to see their growth
05:16 over three years and then see them accomplish that,
05:18 that was very special for me.
05:19 >> Given all those good memories
05:22 and I'm sure some really hard moments too,
05:25 talk about how tough it is to arrive at a decision like this.
05:29 Just kind of, I'm sure it's something that's been weighing
05:33 on you for a while.
05:33 Kind of talk about just how tough that is.
05:37 >> Yeah. And I think every girl
05:38 on our team is facing that decision.
05:40 I mean, I don't know.
05:40 I think every college athlete is probably facing what I,
05:43 what the decision process that I went through.
05:46 Yeah, it was very difficult and yeah, not easy by any means.
05:50 And like I said, I was talking, I took in,
05:54 I went to other people to like talk with them
05:56 and process with them, but in the end it was a decision
05:59 that I had to make for myself and what was best for me.
06:02 And if I, I am a little bit proud of myself for like being able
06:07 to process and make that decision.
06:09 But yeah, it's a very difficult decision and yeah,
06:15 I think all college athletes are trying to balance the,
06:17 this is such an incredible opportunity to be a part
06:20 of a team and you know, especially for us,
06:24 the chemistry that we have here, balancing.
06:26 I want that so much, but also this is hard at times.
06:29 So yeah.
06:30 >> I know you're still in the midst of everything
06:32 and undergoing everything, but you kind of think
06:34 about the last couple of years and you're part of a team
06:36 that has broken viewership records across the country.
06:39 I mean, you're part of a team
06:40 that has transcended the sport essentially
06:42 and brought growth to women's basketball.
06:43 I mean, how much pride do you take in that
06:45 and has it really even hit you that you've been a part
06:48 of this crazy surge in women's athletics?
06:50 >> Oh, no, I, it's crazy to think about it and you know,
06:55 because we go to practice every day with this team,
06:58 you don't think about it too much.
06:59 But then once in a while it's like, wow,
07:01 like I look on social media and I'm looking at all this stuff
07:05 about the Iowans basketball team,
07:06 like wait, I'm on that team.
07:07 Like this is kind of cool.
07:08 I get to be a part of that.
07:11 But yeah, it's, to be coached by this coaching staff,
07:15 their history here and like I said, to be not only
07:19 on this team, but on this team at this time
07:20 for the past four years has been incredible.
07:22 >> What will you remember about your fellow seniors?
07:25 >> Everything that other people probably don't see,
07:29 just their goofiness and how they've been there for me
07:36 when I've needed it most.
07:37 Those are things that other people and the people
07:39 in the stands and not everybody gets to see.
07:42 So those are the things that I'll remember most.
07:44 >> When has their support meant to you
07:46 through your time here?
07:47 >> A lot. Like I said, when I came here,
07:51 it was a big life transition, losing my mom.
07:55 And so not only that happening, but then moving into a college
08:00 and moving into a college dorm and not being around my family
08:03 and because of the busy schedule, not being able
08:05 to go see my family at all.
08:06 So this became my second family.
08:08 And I relied on those people to be there
08:12 to support me when I needed them.
08:13 So it's meant the world.
08:15 >> So when you think back to that year,
08:17 what would you tell 18-year-old Sharon Goodman?
08:22 >> Not take any of it for granted for sure.
08:35 It goes quick, but to just enjoy it all and trust the Lord.
08:43 And I think that's what I have been doing.
08:45 >> Thank you, Sharon.
08:46 >> Yeah.
08:46 >> Thanks, Sharon.
08:47 >> Thank you, everybody.
08:48 >> Thank you, Sharon.
08:48 >> Any other questions for Kate Martin?
08:52 Kate, the last four years we've asked Kaitlyn a lot
08:57 of questions about awards she's won or been nominated for.
09:00 And it's your turn now, National Player of the Year.
09:02 The candidate finalist, how does that feel to be honored
09:06 with something like that your last year here at Iowa?
09:08 >> I guess it's just a cool recognition.
09:10 I mean, obviously I'm not going to win it.
09:13 Like, I'm going to leave that up for my teammate.
09:17 But I mean, I guess it's just cool
09:19 to be recognized nationally.
09:21 So yeah, I felt really honored to be on that list.
09:24 There's a lot of great players on that list.
09:26 I actually haven't seen it,
09:27 but somebody told me a couple people on there.
09:29 So it's just a cool recognition.
09:31 But yeah, I'll save that for Kaitlyn to win, you know.
09:35 >> You joked about your eligibility,
09:36 just the fact this is it.
09:38 This is it we knew at the beginning of the season.
09:40 But now that it's starting to wind down,
09:43 how are those emotions that this is?
09:45 >> Yeah, I don't even know how I feel really yet.
09:49 I just have, I don't even know,
09:52 I just have a lot of emotions overwhelming me right now.
09:56 It's very bittersweet going into this weekend.
10:00 You know, I'm sad that my time is dwindling down,
10:02 but I'm excited for the next chapter of my life.
10:05 And I feel very grateful that I've had six years here.
10:09 Like, I have really milked it.
10:10 So I'm grateful for Coach Bluter
10:13 to allow me to stay for so long
10:15 and given me this opportunity.
10:17 But yeah, it's very overwhelming with emotions right now
10:20 just because this is a big part of my life,
10:24 the last six years here.
10:25 So yeah, I'm a little nervous for the next chapter,
10:28 but I'm also very excited.
10:31 >> Coach is next, right?
10:31 >> Yeah, I wanna try playing, continue playing.
10:34 And then if that doesn't pan out, I would love to coach.
10:39 >> What will you remember about the other seniors
10:43 that are gonna graduate?
10:46 >> Oh gosh, I mean, they all bring
10:48 different things to the table.
10:49 Every single one of them.
10:52 I mean, I could go on and on
10:53 about each and every one of them.
10:54 But Molly has brought a bunch of toughness,
10:58 grit to this team since she's been here the last two years.
11:01 And Sharon has brought a shoulder to be able to cry on.
11:05 She's brought toughness as well.
11:07 And she just brings a smile and joy
11:09 every single day to practice.
11:11 And Gabby and Kaitlin are two of my very best friends.
11:14 And I know I'll continue to make memories with them
11:17 for the rest of our lives.
11:18 And I just feel really grateful
11:21 that I have friendships like that,
11:23 that I've created over the last six years.
11:25 And that's what makes it so hard to let this chapter go,
11:30 is all those memories that I've made with them
11:32 and all the friendships that I have.
11:34 >> When you look back at the last six years,
11:36 is there any one person that has maybe impacted you the most
11:39 or somebody that's been especially over this time
11:41 that's really had a special impact on you?
11:44 >> I mean, every single teammate I've ever had
11:47 has created an impact on my life.
11:51 I can't just choose one.
11:53 But I mean, Coach Bluter really has impacted my life
11:56 ever since I was about this big, I guess.
11:58 So I've always wanted to play for her.
12:00 And the fact that I've gotten to do that
12:03 for the last six years,
12:04 I just feel extremely grateful for that.
12:06 And I hope to be just like her one day
12:10 in the coaching world.
12:11 And she's just taught me so much.
12:13 And so hopefully I can be half as good
12:16 of a coach as her one day.
12:17 >> Last year's senior day was kind of the same stuff.
12:20 College game day, big game
12:21 against the number two ranked team in the country.
12:23 What's your excitement level for the senior day on Sunday
12:25 with really the same type of game
12:27 and then with the last game?
12:28 >> Yeah, I'm really excited for it.
12:30 College game day coming, obviously that's super exciting.
12:33 I think Bailey said two national networks.
12:35 So that's pretty cool.
12:37 Just to bring another light on women's basketball.
12:40 It's gonna be probably one of the most watched games
12:42 yet again.
12:43 And I know ticket prices are extremely high,
12:46 but I also have a lot of family coming in.
12:49 So that's really exciting
12:50 to be able to share that with them.
12:51 But yeah, we lost at Ohio State earlier in this year
12:57 and we wanted to get another shot at them.
12:59 And so I'm excited for Sunday
13:01 and excited to celebrate the rest of our seniors as well.
13:04 >> I know you were kind of back and forth
13:06 about coming back for a sixth year
13:07 and Kaitlin basically said she had to beg you to come back.
13:10 I guess now that you're kind of at this point,
13:12 I mean, what's this season kind of been like for you
13:14 knowing that you don't have to make a decision
13:16 like this is going to be hit actually?
13:18 >> Yeah, I mean, this was the best decision
13:20 I ever could have made.
13:21 It's coming back.
13:22 I feel like I've had more fun playing this year
13:24 than I ever have in my life.
13:26 It's just been very free.
13:28 I've been playing with a lot of freedom
13:30 and I've had a little bit of a different role this year
13:33 and it's been fun.
13:34 And I think that's the fun thing about basketball
13:36 is each year your role can change
13:38 and I've kind of stepped into that,
13:40 a little bit more of a scoring role this year.
13:42 And that's been really exciting
13:43 and a different leadership role as well
13:45 whenever you have younger players
13:48 and then you're leaving,
13:48 you kind of have to just let other people lead.
13:52 And it's been a really fun year
13:54 and I'm super glad I decided to come back.
13:56 I'm glad Kaitlin kind of forced me to come back.
13:59 And yeah, I don't know.
14:03 It's just hard.
14:04 Why would I ever want to leave this excitement?
14:06 And it's just so fun right now,
14:08 but I think it's perfect time
14:10 for me to spread my wings and get out of here.
14:13 >> Did she ever give you that car?
14:14 >> No.
14:15 (laughing)
14:16 >> You said you're looking at playing basketball
14:19 after Iowa.
14:20 Is that an opportunity that kind of
14:21 arised with this season?
14:23 I mean, like you said,
14:24 you've taken a bigger scoring role this year.
14:26 The season that you've had this year
14:27 maybe giving you that opportunity
14:28 to potentially keep playing?
14:29 >> I would say so, probably.
14:31 I mean, I didn't get nominated
14:34 for a National Player of the Year award last year.
14:36 So yeah, I guess there's more attention
14:41 on me a little bit this year.
14:44 I don't know.
14:45 So I guess that's kind of cool
14:47 that I got to stay and then, you know,
14:49 I'm getting this opportunity a little bit more this year
14:52 than I would have if I left last year.
14:54 >> All the intense spotlight on Kaitlin.
14:57 It doesn't seem like there's ever been a moment
15:00 visible to us in any way
15:02 where anybody on the team was resentful.
15:06 Or I mean, it seemed like you always reveled in it.
15:10 Why is that?
15:11 >> Well, we've said this before,
15:14 but whenever Kaitlin's light shines,
15:16 it shines on all of us.
15:17 And what Kaitlin's doing individually,
15:20 it's impacting our entire team,
15:22 our entire program, our entire state,
15:24 the entire country.
15:25 Like, that's really cool.
15:26 And we want the best for Kaitlin
15:29 and we've always had her best interest in mind.
15:31 So we want her to get nominated for all the awards
15:33 and win them all.
15:34 Like, we truly, genuinely are very happy for her.
15:37 >> What was your reaction when you found out
15:39 Sharon was going to be in Senior Day Sunday
15:41 with you guys?
15:42 >> Yeah, you know, kind of a little bittersweet.
15:45 I'm really excited for her and her future.
15:47 And you know, that's a really tough decision to make
15:49 when you've been here the last four years
15:51 and she's gone through an ACL,
15:53 she's gone through so much.
15:54 And you know, she's graduating this spring
15:56 and I just know that she has a very bright future
15:58 ahead of her.
15:59 So I think it was the best decision for her.
16:01 And she's a very intelligent person.
16:03 So she wouldn't, you know, make a decision
16:06 without thinking about it for a long period of time.
16:08 So I know that it's in her best interest.
16:11 And so we're excited for her.
16:12 >> You talked about playing more freely this year.
16:14 And yesterday when we talked to Jan about Kaitlin's decision,
16:17 she spoke about her playing more free against Minnesota
16:19 kind of because of that decision that she made.
16:21 What is it that's allowed you to play more freely this year?
16:24 Is it knowing that it's your last year?
16:25 Did that allow you to have that kind of freedom?
16:27 >> I think so.
16:28 There's something about just like having a senior confidence
16:31 where it's like, you know, you make a mistake,
16:34 you're probably not really gonna get yelled at as much.
16:36 Not like I got yelled at anyways.
16:39 Coach Wooter's the best.
16:40 Okay, so.
16:41 But I'm just saying like whenever you're a senior,
16:44 you kind of have been through the system
16:46 for quite a few years.
16:48 I can almost run our defense in my sleep at this point.
16:52 I can run our offense in my sleep at this point.
16:54 I've been around the system for so long.
16:55 So, you know, having to make decisions
16:59 like offensively or defensively,
17:00 it just is second, it's muscle memory to me at this point.
17:03 So it allows me to focus on other things
17:05 and that's kind of nice.
17:07 And it's allowed me to be more free.
17:08 >> What has it meant for you to be referred to
17:10 as the glue of this team
17:12 and what advice would you give to other players
17:15 who want to take on that role in the future?
17:17 >> Yeah, yeah, I've always thought that, you know,
17:21 word is kind of silly,
17:24 but I think there's a lot of glue pieces on our team.
17:27 It's not just me, like I've gotten the name, the glue,
17:31 and I've just kind of ran with it.
17:32 It's been cool, but for other people
17:36 who want to be in this position in a leadership role
17:39 like I am, I would just say, you know,
17:41 do anything you can to make your teammates' lives easier,
17:46 even if it's just, you know, a little pep talk,
17:48 be super encouraging, vocal.
17:51 That's kind of what I've tried to do.
17:52 I haven't really ever worried about stats
17:54 or anything like that.
17:56 I've just worried about, you know,
17:58 how can I make somebody feel better in their day
18:01 or how can I help out my teammate?
18:03 And that's kind of what I've learned in my six years.
18:07 >> What's something that you've learned?
18:09 >> What are the things that interest you the most
18:11 about coaching?
18:12 >> I just, I love the game of basketball.
18:16 I'm really excited to see it from a different lens,
18:19 but really kind of what Coach Bluter's instilled in us
18:24 is bringing up strong female leaders.
18:26 That's what I want to do the same exact way
18:28 as she's done for us.
18:29 And so I'm really excited for that part of the game
18:33 and I've learned so much in my time here
18:36 and I can't wait to be able to help people
18:39 who have been in my position.
18:40 You know, when they're struggling
18:41 or when things are going good.
18:43 I've had so many great coaches in my life
18:45 that have helped me and shaped me into who I am today.
18:48 So I'm excited to be that for someone else.
18:50 >> Thanks, Kate.
18:51 >> Thank you.
18:51 >> Final question for Gabby Marple.
18:53 >> What's Sunday gonna be like for you?
19:00 >> I think it's gonna be a pretty bittersweet moment.
19:04 Just thinking about all the success
19:06 that I've gotten to be a part of
19:08 throughout my five years here
19:09 and just the different girls that I've came in contact with
19:13 and just thinking about all the memories
19:15 that we've made with each other.
19:16 But also knowing that they had to come to an end
19:19 at some point.
19:20 I'm out of eligibility now, so.
19:23 But I don't know, I'm just gonna soak it all in.
19:25 All my family will be there.
19:27 So it's just gonna be a fun day,
19:29 but also a little sad.
19:31 >> This is kind of like the beginning of the last chapter
19:34 of this group of Iowa Hawkeye women's basketball players.
19:38 What emotions are you feeling
19:40 going into this last swing of the season?
19:43 Are you sentimental, are you nostalgic?
19:44 What's it like?
19:45 >> I would say pretty sentimental.
19:48 Just, you know, I mean, it was the same starters
19:52 for three years and just thinking about
19:55 all that we accomplished and just how close I am with them.
19:59 I think the thing I'll miss the most
20:01 is just being around them every day
20:02 and thinking that that's gonna come to an end
20:05 is just kind of sad.
20:07 But just knowing that we've been able to do so much together
20:11 and I've just been a part of such an amazing program
20:14 my last five years.
20:15 >> You made the decision to come back for one more year.
20:18 Now that you're at this point, the season's come to the end.
20:21 Do you feel like you made the right decision
20:22 to come back for another year?
20:23 >> For sure.
20:24 I don't think I could have passed up
20:26 on another opportunity to play here
20:28 and be surrounded by these coaches
20:30 and these girls every single day.
20:32 >> What are you gonna remember about your fellow seniors?
20:35 >> Just, I mean,
20:39 the memories that we've made off the court far exceed
20:44 the memories that we made on the court,
20:45 which is surprising 'cause we've done so much together.
20:48 But, I mean, we hang out all the time
20:50 and just thinking back on everything
20:54 that we've done together, I mean, just that really.
20:58 >> You mentioned schools in your future.
21:00 Have you landed it?
21:01 Are you still waiting for some options?
21:03 >> Yeah, I'm gonna go to UNC to get my master's of OT.
21:08 Excited for a little warm weather
21:11 and just kind of a fresh start, you know?
21:13 I've only been there one time
21:15 and I don't have any family there,
21:17 so it's just gonna be something new
21:18 and I'm excited for that.
21:20 >> I know you're still in the midst of everything,
21:22 but the way you've been a part of a team
21:24 that's transcended women's basketball
21:26 and brought so much attention,
21:27 what you guys have accomplished,
21:28 do you ever take a moment to sit back
21:30 and understand that you're a part of this big surge
21:33 in movement in women's athletics?
21:34 Or is it still kind of like,
21:36 I just go to practice every day and then I go play games?
21:38 >> I think it's a little bit of both.
21:39 I think last year for sure, after the Final Four was over
21:44 and we got to kind of get a couple weeks off,
21:46 it was kind of like, wow, I got to really soak in
21:50 and think about what we just did as a group.
21:54 Just the amount of fans that we had at our games,
21:57 the amount of Hawk fans that came and supported us
21:59 all the way in Dallas, all the way in Seattle,
22:00 it's just amazing to see people
22:03 wanting to watch women's basketball,
22:04 people wanting to watch our team,
22:05 how much joy people said that we brought to them
22:08 and how we kind of brought the community together.
22:11 I mean, it's amazing hearing that from fans
22:14 and it's just gonna continue to grow.
22:16 >> How do you keep that attention from getting exhausting?
22:19 I mean, how do you just keep doing and enjoying it, I guess?
22:23 >> Yeah, I mean, I would say during season,
22:26 we do a pretty good job of kind of letting
22:28 the outside noise be outside noise.
22:31 There's not enough time, really.
22:32 We're going from game to game.
22:34 We have to really focus on the game plan for the next game
22:37 and focus on each other and getting better together.
22:40 I mean, it's really during the season,
22:44 our focus is on winning the next game and the next game.
22:48 I mean, the outside noise,
22:49 they don't know what we do every day together in practice.
22:53 And so that kind of doesn't really mean much
22:56 during the season.
22:57 There's just not enough time and energy to give
22:59 that more energy than what we're trying to do on the court.
23:04 >> When you showed up here as an 18-year-old freshman,
23:06 did you think they'd be making t-shirts
23:09 with what other coaches say about you, TBI, Snipe?
23:12 Did you envision any of that?
23:15 >> I did not.
23:16 I mean, you dream of playing college basketball.
23:19 You dream of being at a school like this
23:22 and accomplishing what we have.
23:24 But no, I did not think I would ever have t-shirts
23:26 with my name on it and seeing a lot of fans wearing them.
23:30 It's just, it's awesome.
23:32 Like seeing my family in my shirts
23:34 and just a bunch of little kids, just, I don't know.
23:38 It's a great feeling being that role model for kids.
23:40 >> Gabby, what does it mean for you when you see these kids,
23:48 girls and boys, that are wearing Iowa Hawkeye gear
23:52 and they are excited to come to the games
23:54 and they're excited to see you succeed?
23:57 What does that mean for you in terms of this,
24:00 in terms of the future of this program?
24:02 >> Yeah, I think we all try to be great role models.
24:05 Coach Bluter always says that there's so many eyes on us
24:09 and there's so many little boys and girls
24:11 that are looking up to us
24:14 and that we inspire every single day.
24:16 And I think it's just really important
24:19 to represent this school and this program as well as we can.
24:22 And I think we've done a pretty good job of that.
24:25 We always make a point to kind of interact
24:27 with the little kids and one interaction
24:30 can change their whole day or change their whole week
24:32 or their year.
24:34 So I think it's important to be that great role model
24:37 on and off the court for them.
24:38 >> You mentioned that she just feels like
24:40 she's playing a lot more free
24:41 considering she doesn't have a decision to make.
24:43 Is that kind of how you're approaching this last,
24:45 however many games you guys have left?
24:46 Just kind of leave it all out there.
24:48 You don't have a decision to make.
24:49 You know what your future looks like.
24:51 >> Yeah, for sure.
24:52 I think deciding on where I'm gonna be next
24:54 kind of took a lot of pressure off.
24:57 But just soaking in every moment on and off the court.
25:00 There's only, hopefully, a lot of games left.
25:03 But, you know, yeah, just kind of soaking in my last games,
25:08 my last games playing basketball of my whole life.
25:13 >> If you've talked about this before, please forgive me,
25:16 but what is it you wanna do in life?
25:18 Do you have a clearly defined idea?
25:20 >> Like my next steps?
25:24 I will be going to UNC
25:25 to get my Master's of Occupational Therapy.
25:28 >> And where do you want that to take you?
25:30 Or do you know yet?
25:31 >> I'm not sure exactly.
25:33 I'd like to go into pediatrics, working with little kids.
25:37 Always been told I work well with kids
25:39 and I have two younger siblings of my own,
25:41 which I love and adore.
25:43 So, I mean, that's always been kind of my dream.
25:47 >> What do you think you'll miss most about the game?
25:50 >> I'd say just the opportunities that I've been given
25:55 through playing sports my whole life, honestly.
25:57 But just the relationships that I've built here.
26:01 And I don't know, just the competitiveness,
26:04 just the routine,
26:05 like everything about just playing basketball.
26:08 But I've been able to accomplish a lot throughout my career.
26:13 So just being able to look back on that
26:15 and remember those things.
26:17 >> What was your reaction when you found out
26:19 that Sharon was gonna be part of the senior class with you?
26:22 >> Yeah, I think she made the best decision for herself.
26:26 And that's really, at the end of the day,
26:28 you have to look out for yourself.
26:30 We were all supportive of her.
26:31 And I mean, she's given so much to this program.
26:35 And I'm happy for her and what's next for her.
26:38 So, yeah.
26:40 >> Sorry about that.
26:45 Sorry, Ellie.
26:46 >> Thanks, Gabby.
26:47 >> Thanks, Gabby.
26:48 >> Any questions for Kaitlin?
26:50 >> Well, I think a lot of folks were wondering,
26:54 after you talked a lot about waiting
26:56 until the season was over to make the decision,
26:57 they were wondering why you decided
26:59 that right now was the right time to announce.
27:02 >> I think just going into senior night,
27:04 having that decision clear, not only for myself,
27:07 but our fans, my teammates.
27:10 I think that was super important.
27:11 And honestly, just, I don't know,
27:12 getting the weight of the world off my shoulders
27:14 and being able to enjoy this last month with my teammates,
27:18 I think, is the biggest thing.
27:19 And I think I kind of knew in my heart.
27:21 So, being able to kind of get that off my shoulders
27:24 was the biggest thing.
27:24 And, yeah, I think it's just important
27:26 going into this final stretch,
27:28 whether it's our last home game
27:30 and then obviously probably hosting two games at home.
27:33 I think just really enjoying that
27:34 and soaking that in is my biggest focus.
27:36 >> You put on a good poker face this year
27:38 anytime anyone asked you about the future.
27:41 But, I mean, how long would you say
27:43 that you've known this was going to be the move?
27:47 >> Honestly, like I would say,
27:48 like I've gone honestly back and forth a little bit,
27:50 especially early in the year.
27:51 And I think, you know, as the season kind of played out,
27:54 it became more clear to me.
27:56 And I know I said at the beginning of the year,
27:57 like I definitely just kind of feeling my gut
27:59 and knowing my gut.
28:00 And I think that's exactly what happened.
28:01 I kind of knew what was going to be the right step for me.
28:04 And obviously I had a lot of support system around me
28:06 and my family, my friends, and, you know, talked to them.
28:09 And I think everybody supported my decision.
28:11 And that's obviously reassuring.
28:13 And, but I think that was the biggest thing, honestly,
28:15 was just, I felt it in my gut.
28:18 And obviously you weigh the pros and cons of both sides.
28:20 And obviously there's pros and cons both ways.
28:22 But I think I just kind of knew in my heart
28:25 and that kind of goes back to my whole recruiting process too
28:27 is like, you know, I knew in my heart I had to be here.
28:29 And I think I knew in my heart here is, you know,
28:33 what we've been able to do is so special.
28:34 And obviously that's not over,
28:35 but I think I'm ready for the next kind of chapter
28:39 in my life too.
28:40 - Caitlin, was part of the reason you--
28:42 - I know that you don't probably want to talk about
28:44 WNBA right now.
28:45 I just want to ask one question,
28:47 which is if people from the fever
28:50 contacted you since this announcement was made.
28:54 - No.
28:54 - Caitlin, I know it was part of the reason
28:57 you put out the announcement before senior day
28:59 so people could pay attention to Gabby, Kate, Sharon,
29:02 and Molly, just so it's not,
29:04 they don't hear one more year chance
29:05 since you're being honored.
29:06 - Absolutely, I think that's super important
29:08 'cause you know, those other seniors have given so much
29:10 to this program, been some of my best friends
29:13 and people that they need to be celebrated
29:14 the same way that I will be.
29:16 And you know, I think that's really special.
29:18 I don't want that day, I didn't want that day
29:20 to be something all about like, is Caitlin gonna stay?
29:22 Is she gonna go?
29:23 I want it to just be a celebration
29:24 of what we've been able to give to this program,
29:27 what we've been able to do.
29:29 But even for ourselves and our team,
29:30 being able to have some clarity
29:31 and enjoy that day with each other
29:33 and especially Kate and Gab,
29:36 people that I've started every single game with.
29:39 They've been two of my best friends,
29:40 two people that I've had my back
29:41 since the day I stepped on campus.
29:43 So they deserve that day just as much as anybody ever has.
29:47 - When you made the announcement,
29:48 a lot of us were over covering
29:49 the state tournament yesterday
29:50 and Jane Jensen was over there,
29:52 we had a chance to talk with her
29:53 after you made the announcement.
29:54 She spoke about you playing a lot more freely
29:57 during the Minnesota game
29:58 because you had that weight off of your back.
30:00 Did you feel that too, that that Minnesota game
30:02 felt a little differently for you?
30:03 And do you feel like these next,
30:05 possibly 10 games are gonna feel that same way?
30:07 - Yeah, I think for sure.
30:08 I think anytime you make a big decision
30:11 and you're confident in it,
30:12 that's just kind of what happens.
30:14 And I think that's my biggest focus
30:16 going into the rest of the year,
30:17 is just smile, have fun, play free.
30:20 After this game, this weekend,
30:24 we're really only guaranteed two games.
30:27 So I think just enjoying every single second
30:30 and playing and having fun.
30:32 There's no reason to be tense
30:33 'cause these moments go so fast.
30:35 And I think that's just the biggest thing for myself,
30:37 is just smile, have fun.
30:38 And that's really when I play my best basketball.
30:40 So I'm excited.
30:41 - Speaking of that decision to leave early,
30:44 we heard that this is gonna be Sharon's senior day too.
30:48 What was your reaction to when you found out
30:51 she was going to be part of senior day with you?
30:53 And what's it been like to have her as a teammate,
30:56 especially this season?
30:57 - Yeah, I knew Sharon was kind of debating
30:58 which way she was gonna go.
31:00 And I think the biggest thing is
31:01 we support her no matter what.
31:03 Sharon, obviously, is somebody that came in with me
31:05 and somebody I've always had around,
31:08 somebody that always had my back.
31:09 And I think the thing about Sharon
31:10 is she's one of the best teammates I've ever had,
31:12 as long as I've played sports,
31:13 whether it was soccer, basketball, whatever.
31:15 She's just always there for people.
31:16 She really cares about people.
31:17 She loves people.
31:19 She's one of the purest souls I've ever been around.
31:22 And I know she's gonna make a really, really great nurse.
31:24 If any of you know her, you know Sharon.
31:25 That's the perfect job for her.
31:27 So I know she took a lot of time to think about this
31:30 and it was really hard for her.
31:31 But I'm excited.
31:32 I think she's come to terms with the decision
31:34 and she's excited.
31:35 And to be able to celebrate her, too.
31:37 She's given a lot to this program
31:38 and obviously been through a lot in her life.
31:40 And I'm just really proud of her.
31:43 - When did you finally make the decision?
31:45 What was the--
31:47 - I think I've known for a little while, honestly.
31:50 And I've had quite a few conversations
31:52 with our coaching staff.
31:53 And they were always very supportive
31:55 in helping me try to understand both sides
31:58 and see both sides.
31:59 And I think especially over the last couple of weeks,
32:02 my decision has become more clear, I would say.
32:05 - As you weighed the pros and the cons,
32:07 what were those pros that ultimately
32:09 led you to your decision?
32:11 - Yeah, I think it's hard because there's pros
32:14 and cons both ways.
32:15 I think just being excited about starting something new
32:21 and starting a new chapter.
32:22 Obviously my focus is here.
32:23 My goal is to win a national title.
32:25 That's plain and simple.
32:26 That's what I wanna do.
32:27 And to be honest, I'm not really looking that far ahead
32:30 to the WNBA and what's gonna happen when.
32:33 All that will get panned out whenever our season ends.
32:36 And hopefully that's with a national title.
32:38 So I think that's my main focus.
32:40 And I think that having this decision done
32:43 is gonna allow me to play my best basketball.
32:45 And that's honestly was my main priority.
32:47 And I think that's what led me to announce it when I did.
32:51 - How much pressure has been on you
32:53 with this decision weighing on you
32:56 and kind of been the center of attention
32:58 this whole season?
33:00 - Yeah, I think there's always gonna be that pressure
33:03 whether I was making this decision or not.
33:04 And it's something that I kind of embrace.
33:07 Like I'm very lucky to be in this position
33:09 and for people to be so invested in what I'm gonna do
33:11 and a fan base that cares so much about it.
33:13 And obviously I'm very thankful for the support.
33:15 I know a lot of Iowa fans may be a little bit sad,
33:17 but for the most part, it seems like everybody
33:20 is just very appreciative of what we've been able to do
33:22 over my four years.
33:23 And that means the world to me.
33:24 And hopefully we can go out the right way
33:27 and really just keep winning basketball games.
33:29 And I feel like we're playing really well right now.
33:31 So I think that's the biggest thing.
33:34 - You're approaching another record, senior day, Sunday.
33:38 I mean, have you thought about just everything
33:41 that's going into Sunday and the emotions
33:42 that you're feeling?
33:43 Are we gonna see emotions again?
33:45 - Honestly, yeah, I would say so.
33:47 And it's bittersweet.
33:49 I'm lucky that we do senior day after the game's over.
33:53 I think that's very important.
33:55 But my main goal is beating Ohio State.
33:58 I think we're all just super excited
33:59 for another opportunity at them.
34:01 And we were up 10 points in the fourth quarter
34:04 and then we kind of fumbled it a little bit.
34:06 So I think it's a great opportunity for our team.
34:09 And honestly, it's a great opportunity for us
34:11 to build momentum going into the Big 10 tournament.
34:14 It feels eerily similar to last year in a way.
34:16 And I think we can use that to our advantage.
34:19 But yeah, I think there will definitely be emotions.
34:21 We'll have a lot of family and friends in attendance.
34:23 And hopefully it's not our last game in Carver
34:26 where we're able to host the NCAA tournament.
34:29 But we definitely wanna end our regular season
34:32 the right way.
34:33 So I think that's our main focus.
34:34 - Seems like your teammates never begrudged you a moment
34:39 of all the attention you've gotten.
34:41 And that might not be the case on every team.
34:43 What can you tell us about your teammates
34:48 dealing with this?
34:50 - Oh gosh, well I could talk about them for forever.
34:52 I think their support has just been everything.
34:55 Like, obviously the light shines really bright on me,
34:58 but then it does on everybody else.
35:00 And that puts a lot of pressure on them too.
35:01 So they never shied away from the moment.
35:04 They always had my back.
35:06 They've always been very supportive of myself.
35:09 And I think that just speaks to the culture
35:11 Coach Bluter's built here.
35:14 It's not just one person.
35:15 Every single person has a voice.
35:17 Every single person is valued.
35:18 Whether you come off the bench,
35:20 whether you start the game,
35:20 whether you don't get in,
35:22 that's what it's always been, even before I got here.
35:25 And I think that's what's led to us having so much success
35:28 is that's just the way it is.
35:29 Nobody gets jealous.
35:31 You're just happy and you celebrate one another.
35:33 And I think that's what's really allowed us to be so great,
35:37 whether it was Megan, whether it was Monica,
35:39 whether it was Kathleen, whether it was myself,
35:40 whether it was Kate Martin,
35:42 you just celebrate one another
35:44 and you just really want the best for your teammates
35:45 because more than anything, you care about them as people,
35:49 more than you do as a basketball player.
35:51 Thanks, guys.
35:52 - Thanks, Kaitlin.
35:53 - Something going on?
35:55 - It's up to you.
35:57 - Yeah, right.
35:58 (laughing)
35:58 I know better than that.
35:59 All right.
36:03 Well, obviously, recognizing the five seniors
36:07 that we're gonna have after the game will be special,
36:11 but we really need to focus that after the game
36:14 'cause we need full effort and focus on this Ohio State team
36:17 that's already clinched the Big Ten title.
36:20 You know, Ohio State hasn't lost since the first game
36:24 of the Big Ten season.
36:28 I think they've run off, what'd be 17, 16 straight wins.
36:33 And so they've done a great job.
36:35 Obviously, JC Sheldon is so spectacular at point guard.
36:38 She's really hard to guard, shoots the three really well.
36:42 She's quick.
36:45 Fifth year senior just does a really good job.
36:48 When they got Celeste Taylor,
36:49 that made a difference on their team, too.
36:51 She was the ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
36:55 And transferring in as a grad student,
36:59 she has done a tremendous job helping them,
37:01 not only with their defense,
37:02 but lately with their offense as well.
37:04 Early in the year, she wasn't really looking for a shot,
37:06 but now she is.
37:07 Cody McMahon gave us fits at their place.
37:10 She drew 10 fouls.
37:13 She's just a hard person to guard 'cause she's so strong.
37:16 She's got a quick spin move, down low.
37:19 And then, of course, six-four center doesn't hurt either.
37:23 So, obviously, a tremendous basketball team
37:26 that we have coming in.
37:28 - You guys were winning for about,
37:29 well, you felt pretty comfortable for about 32 minutes there
37:31 and then it was the last eight or so minutes
37:33 and then overtime.
37:34 What do you feel like you guys need to do better
37:36 in this matchup to make sure that it's a full 40 minutes?
37:39 - Yeah, you know, Cody McMahon really just took it at us
37:42 in the end, especially in the overtime,
37:44 and just kept getting three-point plays
37:45 and three-point plays.
37:47 So, we have to do a better job of guarding her, for sure.
37:51 And I'm really, like, you know,
37:53 I thought we did a good job with their press,
37:55 which is something they really hang their hat on.
37:57 I believe we only had 15 turnovers against them,
37:59 which isn't bad, a team that likes to press
38:01 and force over 20 turnovers.
38:03 So, I thought we did a pretty good job on that.
38:06 Boxing out was a little bit of an issue for us.
38:08 We need to make sure that we box them out
38:10 'cause they are, you know, bigger, stronger,
38:12 faster than we are.
38:13 So, fundamentally, we have to be as sound as we can be.
38:17 - What have you guys, you know,
38:18 maybe not your game plan, but you mentioned Cody McMahon.
38:20 Do you guys have any adjustments that you're making?
38:23 Is there anything that you can share
38:24 about what you want to do on Sunday to maybe limit her?
38:27 - Yes, but I'm not gonna share it.
38:29 - Coach, what did you make of the timing
38:31 of Kaitlin's decision to do it this week?
38:34 - You know, I'm happy for her that she made it
38:36 before senior day, you know,
38:38 instead of going through that
38:40 and everybody wonder what's gonna happen.
38:42 So, I thought it was good.
38:43 - What was your reaction when she told you
38:46 she'd come to the office and you guys sit down?
38:49 What was that conversation like?
38:50 - Oh, I mean, you know, you're obviously disappointed
38:52 'cause you want her to come back, right?
38:54 I mean, she's a tremendous player
38:56 and we would have loved to have her come back.
38:58 But also, you know, our job is to have them for four years
39:01 and to support them as best as we can
39:03 and try to prepare them for the next chapter in their lives.
39:06 And, you know, her four years is up.
39:08 Even though she could come back for another year,
39:10 she's ready for a new challenge.
39:12 - Lisa, part of the coaching aspect is just not on the court
39:14 but it's off the court, helping them, you know,
39:16 become the young women role models and leaders.
39:18 Sharon Goodman, obviously, is a unique story
39:20 with her mother passing away from college.
39:22 She got pretty emotional in here
39:23 talking about her journey, I guess.
39:25 How much pride do you take in the way she's growing?
39:28 How much pride do you take as just a coaching staff
39:30 and a culture here to try to uplift those women
39:33 and get them through that adversity?
39:35 - Yeah, that's an important part of our job, in my opinion.
39:39 You know, yes, we're paid to win games
39:41 and we keep our jobs because we win games
39:43 and get fans because we win games.
39:46 But my personal mission statement
39:48 is to use the sport of basketball
39:50 to create the next generation of female leaders.
39:53 That's what I want to do and that's what gets me excited.
39:56 And, you know, I think that we've done that
39:58 with all five of these seniors.
40:00 - Did you try talking Sharon out?
40:02 Or try to talk her into coming back?
40:05 - We showed her the pros and cons, you know,
40:07 and that's what we have to do.
40:09 You know, again, Sharon wants to pursue nursing.
40:13 It's not a feasibility for a nursing student
40:16 to do college basketball.
40:19 So, you know, I understand.
40:21 I understand that people are ready for the next chapter
40:23 of their lives after four years of college.
40:25 - What will you remember about this senior bunch?
40:28 - Oh man, I mean, a lot of great things.
40:31 I mean, obviously, you know,
40:34 they just took us, you know, to the Final Four,
40:36 took us to the championship game.
40:38 You know, our fan support has been just tremendous.
40:42 And so, you know, this group has been really special.
40:46 And, you know, and I really, for Kate and Gabby,
40:51 you know, those two came back for a sixth and fifth year.
40:54 And to me, that was really special
40:56 for those two to commit to that.
40:58 And then for Molly Davis to come here from Central Michigan,
41:02 not be guaranteed anything, no starting position,
41:05 no amount of playing time, come here, accept her role,
41:09 do whatever it takes for us to be better.
41:12 That took a lot of courage too.
41:13 So I think that, you know, I really admire those guys.
41:17 - Did you have to do anything
41:19 that maybe you've never had to do as a coach
41:21 when it comes to all the attention that Kaitlin's got
41:24 is unlike nothing else to keep the other players,
41:30 you know, feeling like they really matter?
41:33 - Yeah, Mike, I think that's something that we've done
41:37 since before Kaitlin got here.
41:38 I think that culture was established before she got here.
41:42 And I think that made it a lot easier to handle it.
41:44 One of our values is everyone matters.
41:46 And we try to live that every single day
41:48 by the way we treat our athletes,
41:51 by the amount of respect we give them, the time we give them,
41:54 you know, just even by the things we do,
41:57 like celebrating the assist over the basket,
41:59 you know, that's what we try to do every day in practice.
42:01 And so I think since we had that culture
42:05 already established here,
42:07 it really helped when you have a mega star
42:11 like Kaitlin come in.
42:12 - Game on Sunday is pretty much a carbon copy
42:15 to last year with Indiana, you know,
42:16 college game days coming,
42:18 a team that's already wrapped up the crown,
42:20 but a team that you lost to early in the year.
42:22 Does that experience of having to deal with
42:24 all the extra around the game
42:25 with the college game day, sold out crowd,
42:27 does that last year's, you know, regular season finale
42:29 just kind of prepare you for what's coming on Sunday?
42:32 - Yes.
42:33 There is a lot extra going on in this game
42:36 with game day, with recruits, with senior ceremony,
42:40 and five, you know, seniors going through.
42:42 So there's a lot extra going on.
42:44 And I worry about that 'cause it can take your energy
42:47 and your focus away from the game.
42:48 And this game, in my opinion, is very important.
42:51 This game, you know, tells whether we're a two seed
42:53 or a three seed for the NCAA tournament.
42:55 This game also helps us
42:57 with the NCAA selection committee seed.
43:00 So I think it's, you know, extremely important game,
43:03 even though, yes, Ohio State already has this wrapped up.
43:07 You know, I do think that every game this year
43:14 has almost prepared us for the NCAA tournament.
43:16 I feel like almost every game that we've played in
43:19 has had extra emotion, extra attention,
43:23 extra fans, extra screeching.
43:28 So, you know, to me, we are prepared
43:31 for the NCAA tournament because we've played
43:32 in that kind of environment almost every single night.
43:35 - What's the team's motivation level
43:37 for getting another shot at Ohio State?
43:39 - I haven't seen 'em since after our Minnesota game yet.
43:44 We had yesterday off, and so I'll see them after this.
43:47 But, you know, it's just, to me, it's yes, Ohio State.
43:51 We wanna redeem that loss.
43:53 But it's also, you know, it is our senior day.
43:55 We wanna send those guys out with a win.
43:57 We wanna help our fans enjoy this experience
44:00 on their home court.
44:01 And we would love to go undefeated
44:03 in Big Ten play on our home court.
44:05 So there's a lot of reasons.
44:06 - A lot of us were over in Des Moines yesterday
44:08 when the announcement was made
44:09 covering a Solon High School game.
44:10 Jan and your son were there watching the game, actually.
44:13 So we had a chance to visit with Jan,
44:14 and she spoke maybe four or five times
44:16 about how freely she saw Kaitlin play against Minnesota,
44:19 maybe because that announcement was off of her shoulders
44:21 outside of her head.
44:22 Did you see that out of her, too,
44:24 see a difference in her level of play?
44:25 And does that give you confidence
44:27 for the next possibly 10 games
44:28 what you might see out of her?
44:30 - Yeah, absolutely.
44:31 I think she has played with a little bit more
44:34 enjoyment and ease, you know, after she made her decision.
44:38 You know, everybody was worried about, like, the record.
44:40 Like, oh, she's, you know, stressed out about the record.
44:43 She was never stressed out about the record.
44:45 She was stressed out about making this decision.
44:47 And that was, you know,
44:50 she knew she was gonna get that record.
44:51 Everybody knew she was gonna have that record.
44:53 So, no, she was never worried about that.
44:56 - Lisa.
44:57 - How crucial is that everyone matters philosophy
44:59 to the success that this team's been able to achieve?
45:03 - It's a huge point of everything that we do.
45:05 Everyone matters is so important to the enjoyment
45:10 the rest of the team gets out of being an Iowa Hawkeye,
45:14 to know that they matter regardless of their role,
45:17 regardless of how many points they score,
45:19 that they're an important aspect to this team.
45:21 So, it's a big part of everything that we do.
45:25 It's one of our value statements.
45:27 - You were an AIAW athlete yourself, I believe,
45:30 and playing more or less at the same time as Lynette Woodard.
45:34 - Don't look for me in the record books, though, okay?
45:36 Just save y'all the trouble.
45:38 - What's your recollection of her as one of those
45:43 formative star athletes in women's basketball at that time?
45:47 Like, what was your perspective of it as a player?
45:50 And then, sort of, how does it compare
45:53 to how Kaitlin is treated now?
45:55 - Yeah, you know, back then,
45:56 there wasn't a lot of women's basketball on TV.
45:58 And so, you didn't get to see Lynette Woodard play
46:00 very often.
46:02 So, it was more like you heard about her
46:05 scoring all these points, but also then,
46:07 she was an Olympian.
46:09 And so, you got to see her in the Olympics.
46:11 And then, you get to see her as a Harlem Globetrotter.
46:14 So, it was more even that stuff,
46:17 rather than her Kansas career,
46:19 that I particularly remember.
46:22 But as a coach at St. Ambrose,
46:27 man, my camp packet, I always used her
46:29 on the front of my camp packet,
46:30 because my playbook and everything,
46:32 she was the person that was on the cover of that.
46:34 I wish I still had one.
46:35 I probably do, somewhere.
46:37 - Lisa, we were talking to Kait,
46:38 and she mentioned that she's known you
46:40 since she was about yay high,
46:41 said she's always wanted to play for you,
46:43 she wants to play basketball professionally,
46:44 and then get into coaching.
46:45 But when she got into her coaching aspect,
46:47 she said, "I just want to be like Lisa Bluter.
46:48 "I want to be half the coach she is."
46:50 And she wants to develop young women
46:51 the same way that you helped develop her,
46:53 and countless others.
46:54 I guess, as a coach now, looking back at that,
46:56 what does that just sort of mean to you,
46:57 knowing that you've had that impact on them?
46:59 - It's huge.
47:00 I mean, that means a lot to me for her to say that.
47:02 I think Kait's going to be such a good coach,
47:05 and she's such a great young woman.
47:07 And she embraces our values like no other,
47:10 and she's a special kid.
47:14 I'd love to have her on my staff.
47:16 - Have you had any other players that you can think of
47:18 that you've had a relationship with
47:19 as long as you've known Kait since she was that small?
47:22 Anybody else in this line?
47:23 - No, 'cause I think,
47:24 well, I mean, Johanna Salverson
47:25 was a six-year athlete here.
47:27 Kait's definitely the newest one.
47:31 I mean, I've had great relationships
47:32 with a lot of our kids,
47:33 but they just haven't been around as long,
47:34 and I haven't known 'em as long.
47:36 I literally have known Kait
47:37 since she was about five years old.
47:39 - Coach, I'm sure you try to keep emotions out of it,
47:42 but with this kind of being the beginning of the end
47:44 for this core group,
47:46 are you starting to get a little sentimental, nostalgic?
47:49 What kind of emotions are you feeling here down the stretch?
47:52 - Yeah, you can't help it, right?
47:54 I mean, you just can't help but get a little sentimental
47:57 any time you have a senior class graduate.
47:59 But this senior class has been pretty successful
48:02 and pretty enjoyable to coach.
48:03 And so I think you are,
48:06 you'd have to be stone cold not to have
48:11 some kind of emotion about it.
48:13 But the focus has gotta be on each and every game
48:16 and the next game and the next game,
48:17 and you can't be thinking,
48:19 oh, if we lose this game, we're done,
48:20 and I'll never coach these guys again.
48:21 You can't think like that.
48:23 And so I think even after last year,
48:25 you know, when we lost in the championship game,
48:27 I hadn't let my mind go there,
48:29 and I think that's why I was pretty emotional
48:31 after the game is 'cause then that's when it all hit me.
48:34 - Thanks, Coach.
48:36 - Thank you. - Thank you.
48:37 [BLANK_AUDIO]