Iowa women's basketball head coach Jan Jensen reacts to the Hawkeyes' upset loss to Virginia during a postgame interview in Iowa City on Monday, March 23. (Ethan Petrik/Quad-City Times)
IOWA CITY — The Iowa women's basketball team has suffered its first transfer portal departure.
Junior Kennise Johnson will depart the program after three years in Iowa City. She announced the decision on social media.
Iowa women's basketball guard Kennise Johnson fires a pass during practice at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City on Tuesday, July 1.
ETHAN PETRIK, Quad-City Times
In a post addressed to Hawkeye Nation, Johnson expressed her gratitude for her time in the black and gold.
"First, I want to thank my coaches for taking a chance on me and believing in me," Johnson wrote. "You supported me through everything on and off the court and constantly uplifted me, even in moments when I needed it most. That’s something I’ll never forget.
"To my teammates my sisters for life this has been the hardest goodbye. You all became so much more than just teammates to me. The memories, the laughs, the struggles, and the bond we built... that’s forever. I love you all more than you know, and I’m so grateful for the friendships that will last a lifetime.
"To the Hawkeye fans thank you. You embraced me and showed me love no matter what my role looked like, whether I was on the court, on the bench, or battling injury. That kind of support means everything, and it never went unnoticed.
"This program, this team, and this community gave me memories I will carry with me for the rest of my life. And because of that, this decision hasn’t been easy.
"But sometimes, growth requires change. As much as I love this team and everything it stands for, I know it’s time for me to step out of the nest and find an opportunity that better fits me and my journey.
"With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal. Thank you for everything. Forever grateful."
The 5-foot-4 guard appeared in 20 games during her Hawkeye career and scored nine points, grabbed seven rebounds, dished six assists and nabbed one steal in 62 minutes of action.
The native of Joliet, Illinois joined Iowa as a member of the 2023 recruiting class. She was rated as the No. 3 guard in the state of Illinois and the No. 13 overall prospect in the state.
