Introduction to Jan Jensen Age
Jan Jensen is a well-respected basketball coach, former college basketball player, and a key figure in the development of women’s basketball in the United States. Her contributions to the sport, both as a player and coach, have shaped the future of many aspiring basketball players.
As of 2025, Jan Jensen is 56 years old, having been born on December 6, 1968, in Kimballton, Iowa, USA. Over the years, she has built an impressive legacy, from her playing career to her transition into coaching, where she has played a crucial role in shaping the success of the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team.
Wiki Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jan Jensen |
| Date of Birth | December 6, 1968 |
| Age | 56 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Kimballton, Iowa, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Drake University |
| Playing Position | Forward |
| College Team | Drake Bulldogs (1987–1991) |
| Professional Team | BTV 1846 Wuppertal (Germany, 1992–93) |
| Coaching Career | Drake University (Assistant Coach, 1993–1999)Iowa Hawkeyes (Assistant & Associate Head Coach, 2000–2024)Iowa Hawkeyes (Head Coach, 2024–Present) |
| Net Worth | Approx. $3.2 million (2025 estimate) |
| Spouse | Julie Fitzpatrick |
| Children | Jack and Janie |
| Honors & Awards | Iowa Girls Basketball Hall of Fame (1993)Gateway Conference MVP (1991)Drake University Jersey Retired |
Table of Contents
Early Life and High School Career
A Childhood Rooted in Basketball
Born and raised in Kimballton, Iowa, Jan Jensen grew up in a sports-loving family. Basketball was a significant part of her upbringing, and she quickly became recognized for her natural talent on the court.
Her high school basketball career was nothing short of legendary. She attended Elk Horn–Kimballton High School, where she became a dominant force in six-on-six girls’ basketball, a format that was popular in Iowa at the time.
High School Achievements
- Scored an average of 66 points per game in her senior year (1987)
- Led the entire country in scoring during her final high school season
- Inducted into the Iowa Girls High School Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993
Jensen’s unbelievable scoring ability made her one of the most talked-about high school basketball players in the U.S., eventually paving the way for her collegiate career.
College Career at Drake University
Dominating NCAA Women’s Basketball
After high school, Jan Jensen attended Drake University, where she played for the Drake Bulldogs women’s basketball team. It was here that she truly made her mark at the collegiate level.
Her senior season (1990–91) was one of the best individual seasons in NCAA history, as she led the entire NCAA Division I in scoring.
Notable Collegiate Achievements
- Led NCAA Division I women’s basketball in scoring (1990–91) with 29.6 points per game
- Named the Gateway Conference Most Valuable Player
- Earned Kodak Honorable Mention All-American honors
- Drake University retired her jersey number as a tribute to her outstanding career
Jensen’s scoring ability, leadership, and dedication to the game made her one of the most celebrated players in Drake University history.
Professional Basketball Career in Europe
After graduating from college, Jan Jensen pursued a professional basketball career in Europe. She played for BTV 1846 Wuppertal in Germany during the 1992–93 season.
Key Highlights from Her Professional Career
- Helped her team win the German Women’s Basketball Cup
- Gained valuable international experience
- Developed a deeper understanding of the game, which later helped in her coaching career
Although her professional playing career was relatively short, her experience in Europe gave her the foundation for a successful coaching career.
Coaching Career: From Assistant to Head Coach
Early Years as a Coach
After returning to the United States, Jan Jensen transitioned into coaching, starting as a graduate assistant at Drake University.
She later became an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator, helping build a successful women’s basketball program.
Moving to Iowa with Lisa Bluder
In 2000, when her mentor Lisa Bluder became the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team, Jensen had a choice: stay at Drake or follow Bluder to Iowa.
She chose to follow Bluder, joining her as an assistant coach at Iowa, and eventually became the associate head coach in 2004.
Achievements as an Assistant and Associate Head Coach
For over two decades, Jan Jensen played a crucial role in the success of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Her work focused on recruiting top-tier talent and developing post players, many of whom went on to become some of the best in the country.
Key Contributions at Iowa
- Helped recruit and develop four McDonald’s All-Americans (Samantha Logic, Lindsay Richards, Johanna Solverson, and Caitlin Clark)
- Coached Megan Gustafson, the Big Ten’s first Consensus National Player of the Year
- Played an instrumental role in the Hawkeyes’ rise as a dominant force in the Big Ten Conference
Her dedication to player development and her eye for recruiting top talent have helped Iowa become one of the strongest teams in women’s college basketball.
Becoming Head Coach at Iowa (2024-Present)
Stepping into Leadership
In May 2024, following Lisa Bluder’s retirement, Jan Jensen was officially named head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team.
This marked her first head coaching role in the NCAA, after spending 24 years as an assistant and associate head coach.
Immediate Impact as Head Coach
Since taking over, Jensen has continued to build on Iowa’s success, maintaining their status as one of the top programs in the country.
Her coaching philosophy is centered around:
- Developing elite-level post players
- Recruiting top high school talent
- Implementing an up-tempo, high-scoring offense
- Focusing on strong team chemistry and leadership
Jan Jensen Coaching Philosophy
Building a Winning Culture
Throughout her career, Jan Jensen has emphasized teamwork, player development, and a strong work ethic.
Player Development and Mentorship
One of the biggest strengths of her coaching is her ability to mentor players and help them grow into top athletes.
She has been known to work closely with:
- Post players to refine their scoring and rebounding skills
- Guards to improve their leadership and court vision
- Athletes to develop mental toughness and confidence
Personal Life and Legacy
Family and Personal Challenges
Jan Jensen is married to Julie Fitzpatrick, a physical therapist with over 25 years of experience. The couple lives in Coralville, Iowa, with their two children:
- Son: Jack
- Daughter: Janie
Jensen has also overcome personal hardships, including the loss of her parents and brother, which has made her even more resilient and dedicated to coaching.
Legacy in Women’s Basketball
Jan Jensen’s impact on the game is immense. Her success as a player, recruiter, and coach has helped shape the landscape of women’s basketball in Iowa and beyond.
Her dedication to the sport, commitment to her players, and ability to build winning teams make her one of the most respected figures in college basketball.
Conclusion
At 56 years old, Jan Jensen continues to make history as one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball. Her journey from a high-scoring high school player to head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes is a story of passion, dedication, and resilience.
As she continues to lead Iowa into the future, there’s no doubt that her impact on the game will be felt for generations to come.
Related Articles & References
For more insights into Jan Jensen’s coaching style and career, check out:
- Iowa Women’s Basketball Official Site
- Jan Jensen Coaching Interview on YouTube
- ESPN Women’s Basketball Coverage
Disclaimer
This article on Jan Jensen’s age, biography, net worth, and career is based on publicly available information and reputable sources. While we strive for accuracy, details may change over time. For official updates, please refer to verified news sources and the University of Iowa’s official website.
