Journey Houston Poised for Bigger Role with Iowa Hawkeyes

Summer Training Boosts Houston’s Development

Journey Houston logged 34 appearances as a freshman, averaging 5.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 50 % from the field. This offseason she has added extra work with coach Randi Henderson, slimmed down her body, and increased her shooting volume in practice. Assistant coach LaSondra Barrett called Houston the Hawkeyes’ biggest surprise this summer, praising her mental toughness after missing the Big Ten freshman team.

Houston’s improved confidence is the focal point of her growth plan. She now works on ball‑handling, guard‑defending, and sliding between the three‑ and four‑spot to fit Iowa’s four‑out, one‑in offense. Barrett noted that when Houston trusts her abilities, she becomes “pretty dangerous” on the court.

Returning Core Sets Stage for Next Season

Iowa’s roster includes bright young talent such as Ava Heiden, Layla Hays, Chit‑Chat Wright, and Taylor Stremlow. The team also sees the continued development of a frontcourt where Houston and Heiden can combine size and guard‑like skills. Jan Jensen’s second year at the helm saw a 27‑win campaign, and the program hopes to build on that momentum.

The Hawkeyes previously finished second in a loaded Big Ten despite an early postseason exit. That base of experience, paired with the new swing talent, gives Iowa a solid foundation heading into the 2025‑26 schedule. A strong frontcourt pairing could unlock additional offensive sets in the four‑out system.

Confidence and Versatility Key to Future Success

Houston’s limited three‑point shooting last season—11 makes from 30 attempts at 36.4 %—will be a focus as she steps into a larger role. She is now tasked with guarding faster players and handling the ball at the three‑position when needed. Barrett’s emphasis on confidence suggests a player ready to expand her defensive and offensive impact.

Entering her third season under Jan Jensen, the Hawkeyes aim to convert the offseason improvements into on‑court results. If Houston can blend her rebounding, scoring, and newfound shooting into a reliable two‑way contributor, Iowa’s path to the top of the Big Ten could become much clearer. The combination of her upside and the returning nucleus positions the Hawkeyes as a team to watch in the coming year.