Jan Jensen has spent over three decades shaping the landscape of women’s basketball, not through flashy headlines or self-promotion, but through consistent dedication, emotional intelligence, and a deep-rooted love for the game. As the newly appointed head coach of the University of Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team, Jensen’s journey is finally in the national spotlight. While many might be curious about Jan Jensen age, there’s much more to know about this remarkable woman—her background, coaching journey, family, and leadership philosophy that make her story truly special. This article dives deep into Jan Jensen age and every facet of her life and career, offering a full portrait of a coach who’s as inspiring as she is accomplished.
Quick Bio:
| Full Name | Jan Jensen |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 6, 1968 |
| Age | 56 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Kimballton, Iowa |
| College | Drake University |
| Playing Years | 1987–1991 |
| Position | Center |
| Jersey Number | 13 (retired by Drake) |
| Coaching Start | 1993 (Assistant at Drake) |
| Current Role | Head Coach, Iowa Women’s Basketball |
| Spouse | Julie Fitzpatrick |
| Children | Jack (son), Janie (daughter) |
| Salary | $1.05 million annually |
| @janjensen13 |
How Old Is Jan Jensen?
Jan Jensen was born on December 6, 1968, in the small town of Kimballton, Iowa, a quiet Danish-American community in the Midwest. As of 2025, she is 56 years old. Her age marks not only the years she’s lived, but the wealth of experience she brings to every game, practice, and conversation with her players. With over 30 years of collegiate coaching under her belt, Jensen’s maturity and wisdom are evident in her every move on the sidelines. She carries the poise of someone who has witnessed and helped shape the evolution of women’s college basketball over multiple generations. Unlike younger coaches just beginning their rise, Jensen’s age positions her as both a mentor and a stabilizing figure—a coach who understands the bigger picture beyond the court.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Kimballton gave Jan a grounded start to life, surrounded by tradition, community, and Midwestern values. From a young age, she displayed a strong competitive streak and a love for sports, particularly basketball. Her family played a huge role in supporting her passion, especially her late parents, Dale and Yvonne Jensen, who were her biggest cheerleaders throughout her career. The environment she was raised in emphasized hard work, humility, and service—traits that would later become central to her coaching philosophy. Her formative years were marked by a tight-knit community that believed in lifting one another up, a sentiment that still reflects in how she leads her teams today. By the time she graduated high school, it was clear she was headed for something greater.
Playing Career at Drake University
Jan Jensen’s time as a player at Drake University from 1987 to 1991 is still remembered with admiration and pride by fans and teammates alike. Despite not being the tallest or most athletic player on the court, Jensen’s heart, skill, and basketball IQ set her apart. She played as a center, often undersized compared to her opponents, but she used her quickness, footwork, and determination to dominate the paint. During her senior year, she led the entire NCAA in scoring, averaging an astonishing 29.6 points per game—a feat that placed her on the national radar. That season earned her several honors, including MVC Player of the Year and NCAA Academic All-American of the Year. Her excellence wasn’t just athletic; she was also a high-performing student. Years later, Drake retired her No. 13 jersey, a rare and prestigious honor, cementing her legacy in the program’s history.
Coaching Career Beginnings
After college, Jensen didn’t chase the limelight or professional playing contracts; instead, she found her calling in coaching. In 1993, she began her coaching career at her alma mater, Drake, where she worked under the guidance of Lisa Bluder, her former coach and mentor. Jensen quickly adapted to life on the sidelines, translating her basketball knowledge and passion into mentorship for young athletes. She found joy not only in winning games but in helping players grow into leaders, students, and confident young women. When Bluder accepted the head coaching job at the University of Iowa in 2000, she took Jensen with her—marking the beginning of a new and transformative chapter in both of their lives. This move would eventually set the stage for Jensen’s long-term impact on one of the most respected programs in women’s college basketball.
Rise to Associate Head Coach at Iowa
Over the next two decades at Iowa, Jan Jensen became one of the most valuable assistant coaches in the country. Her role evolved from on-court strategist to talent developer and trusted advisor to players. She played a key role in recruiting top-tier athletes, including recent superstar Caitlin Clark, and helped mold them into elite performers and team leaders. Her emotional intelligence, ability to build trust, and keen eye for potential set her apart. Iowa’s sustained success over the years—including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, Big Ten titles, and back-to-back Final Four appearances in 2023 and 2024—was in no small part due to Jensen’s behind-the-scenes leadership. Even though she didn’t have the head coach title at the time, her fingerprints were all over the program’s growth and culture. Players and fans often referred to her as the “heart” of the team—a coach who leads with authenticity and empathy.
Becoming Head Coach in 2024
In May 2024, following Lisa Bluder’s retirement, Jan Jensen was officially named the head coach of Iowa women’s basketball. The announcement was met with universal praise. Players past and present expressed their excitement and gratitude, knowing that the person taking the reins had been a guiding force all along. Jensen’s promotion wasn’t a surprise—it was a natural, well-deserved evolution. Stepping into the spotlight after decades as an assistant was an emotional moment for her. She described it as “a full-circle journey” during her press conference, paying tribute to Bluder, her players, and her family. Leading the team into the post-Caitlin Clark era posed a unique challenge, but Jensen met it head-on. Her coaching style emphasizes toughness, preparation, and respect. She doesn’t seek attention; she seeks progress, both on the scoreboard and in the lives of her players.
Personal Life and Family
Behind every great coach is a support system, and for Jan Jensen, that comes in the form of her loving family. She is married to Julie Fitzpatrick, a skilled and compassionate physical therapist. Their relationship is one of mutual understanding, built on shared values and a commitment to their children and careers. Together, they are parents to two children, Jack and Janie, who are often seen cheering from the stands. Balancing life as a head coach and a parent is no easy task, but Jensen makes it work with intention and love. She has spoken openly about how her family is her foundation, providing perspective and keeping her grounded through the pressures of high-level coaching. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she is also a quiet symbol of representation, showing that it is possible to be authentic and successful without compromise.
Net Worth and Salary Details
With her recent promotion to head coach, Jan Jensen’s financial value has risen accordingly. She currently earns approximately $1.05 million per year, which includes a base salary of $850,000 and an additional $200,000 in guaranteed bonuses. Her contract also features performance incentives tied to postseason success, conference wins, and academic performance of her players. Although her total net worth is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated to be between $2 million and $4 million, factoring in her salary history, endorsements, and long-term service. But for Jensen, coaching has never been about money. She often emphasizes that the greatest rewards come from seeing her players grow into strong, capable women. Still, her compensation is a reflection of her impact, loyalty, and success in one of college basketball’s most competitive environments.
Social Media Presence and Public Image
In today’s digital era, Jan Jensen maintains a genuine and professional presence on social media, particularly on Instagram (@janjensen13). Her posts are never self-centered; instead, they focus on her team, her family, and moments of gratitude. From motivational quotes to candid locker room photos, her content reflects the same warmth and honesty she brings to her coaching. Jensen’s social media isn’t a performance—it’s a continuation of who she is. She avoids controversy, embraces positivity, and uses her platform to celebrate others. This authentic approach has earned her a loyal following among players, fans, and fellow coaches alike. Publicly, she’s known as a coach with heart—a leader who listens, supports, and inspires by being real, not performative.
Conclusion
Jan Jensen is more than her title, age, or résumé—she’s a leader, a mentor, and a builder of character. Her story is one of steady growth, quiet strength, and unwavering commitment to her players and her values. From small-town beginnings to national acclaim, she has shaped her life with authenticity and purpose. While searches like “Jan Jensen age” may spark curiosity, they often lead to something more meaningful—a discovery of a woman who has left a lasting imprint on everyone lucky enough to be in her circle. As she continues to lead the Iowa Hawkeyes, her legacy is still unfolding—and it promises to be one of impact, dignity, and heart.
FAQs:
What is Jan Jensen age?
Jan Jensen age is 56 years old, born on December 6, 1968, in Kimballton, Iowa.
When did Jan Jensen become head coach of Iowa?
She was promoted to head coach of Iowa women’s basketball in May 2024, following the retirement of Lisa Bluder.
Who is Jan Jensen married to?
She is married to Julie Fitzpatrick, and together they have two children: Jack and Janie.
What was Jan Jensen’s college playing career like?
She starred at Drake University, leading the nation in scoring during her senior year and earning numerous accolades. Her jersey number was later retired.
How much does Jan Jensen earn as a coach?
She earns around $1.05 million annually, including base pay and guaranteed bonuses, under her current coaching contract with Iowa.
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