Iowa women's basketball head coach Jan Jensen recently made it clear that the program will not pursue the return of guard/forward Emely Rodriguez, who has entered the NCAA transfer portal for the second straight year. The announcement came during a brief interview in which Jensen emphasized that the team will move forward without the player.
A Quiet Decision in Iowa City
Rodriguez's season was hampered by a back injury and a reported suspension, limiting her to just six appearances. In those games she averaged 7.2 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game, shooting 42.5% from the field, 14.3% from three‑point range and 80% on free throws.
The coach's statement closed the door on any potential comeback, noting that Rodriguez remains the lone Hawkeye still listed in the portal after several teammates announced their own commitments. Jensen's decision reflects a strategic approach to roster management as the program prepares for the upcoming season.
With nine of the 15 scholarship slots already earmarked for the 2026‑27 campaign, the Hawkeyes are reshaping their roster to build depth and competitiveness. The move underscores a broader trend of careful scholarship allocation within the program.