As the Iowa Hawkeyes gear up for another thrilling college basketball season, rising star Hannah Stuelke has her sights set on making a big impact. In a recent interview, Stuelke opened up about her preparations for the upcoming season and the valuable advice she’s been receiving from none other than the team’s superstar, Caitlin Clark. Clark, known for her relentless work ethic and leadership, has been pushing Stuelke to stay focused and put in the work — with one key message: “Stay in the gym.”
Stuelke, a forward for the Hawkeyes, has shown tremendous potential throughout her collegiate career. As she enters the new season, her goal is to elevate her game even further, and she credits much of her motivation to Clark’s influence. “Caitlin is always pushing me,” Stuelke shared. “She’s always telling me to stay in the gym, keep working on my game, and never get comfortable. That’s the mentality she has, and it’s contagious.”
With Clark being one of the most recognized and talented players in women’s college basketball, her advice carries significant weight. Clark’s ability to dominate on the court with her shooting, playmaking, and leadership has made her an iconic figure, and she’s taken on the role of mentor to many of her teammates, including Stuelke. The forward expressed her gratitude for having such a strong role model to look up to.
“Caitlin is not just an amazing player, but she’s also a great leader,” Stuelke continued. “She knows what it takes to succeed, and she’s always willing to share that knowledge with us. She sets the tone for the whole team, and it’s clear that if we want to compete at the highest level, we need to put in the same kind of effort.”
As Stuelke looks ahead to the new season, she is focused on improving her overall game. With Clark’s encouragement to keep grinding in the gym, Stuelke has been working on her shooting, footwork, and defensive skills, all while building her confidence as a key player for the Hawkeyes. “I know I need to keep pushing myself and be ready for whatever challenges come my way,” she said. “Caitlin’s advice has really motivated me to keep working, even when it gets tough.”
The upcoming season is full of excitement and high expectations for Iowa. With Stuelke working hard to take her game to the next level and Clark leading the charge, the Hawkeyes are poised to make another deep run in the NCAA tournament. Stuelke’s growth and development could be a crucial factor in the team’s success, and it’s clear that her drive to improve has been influenced by Clark’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
As the season approaches, fans can expect to see a more determined and confident Hannah Stuelke on the court. And with Caitlin Clark’s words of wisdom ringing in her ears — “stay in the gym” — Stuelke is ready to rise to the occasion and help lead Iowa to new heights.
