Caitlin Clark's Former College Team Gets Major Transfer News on Monday
In their first season without Clark leading the offense, the Hawkeyes still managed to win 23 games, including 10 during Big Ten play. Her influence continues to resonate, especially in recruiting, as young players who watched her rise are now dreaming of making their mark at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
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On Monday, Iowa head coach Jan Jensen shared a major roster update for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
"Hawk Fans, we added another great player to our team & you're gonna love watching her play! Plz help me officially welcome @Emyrodriguez21 !"
Jensen followed that up with a warm message:
"We're so excited to have Emely & her family join us! Thx for being a Hawkeye, Emely! We can't wait until you're here! Let's Goooo!"
The newest addition, UCF transfer Emely Rodriguez, is a 6-foot guard from Miami. In high school, she led Central Pointe Academy to an Sunshine Independent Athletic Association state championship. Rodriguez earned the Miami Herald's Miami-Dade County Girls Basketball Player of the Year honors after averaging an eye-popping 26.5 points and 15.5 rebounds per game.
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Originally from the Dominican Republic, Rodriguez moved to Miami with her mother to pursue greater basketball opportunities.
Rodriguez spent her freshman season at UCF, appearing in 25 games for the Knights. She averaged 26.4 minutes and 11.9 points per game. On Nov. 29, she recorded her first collegiate double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds.
In her final appearance with UCF, she played 29 minutes and scored 17 points in a Big 12 Tournament second-round loss to Kansas State. She ended her season on a strong note, scoring in double digits in each of her final four games, including a 21-point performance against Iowa State on Feb. 25.
Her impressive debut season earned her a spot on the All-Big 12 Freshman Team.
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Related: ESPN's Monica McNutt Makes Strong Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Statement
Related: Becky Hammon Makes Career Move/Decision Before New WNBA Season
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