The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team isn’t just racking up assists on the court—they’re getting them off it, too. And this time, the 29th assist of the game came from an unexpected source: their bus driver.
As the team prepared for a crucial early-morning game, they got an energy boost from an unlikely motivator. The bus driver, affectionately known as “Zee,” delivered a pep talk that set the tone for the game. With a 9 a.m. tip-off looming, the Hawkeyes needed all the energy they could muster, and Zee made sure they were mentally locked in.
“He had us ready,” one player said, recalling the moment. “It wasn’t just about basketball—it was about attitude, heart, and showing up when it matters most.”
The speech clearly worked, as the Hawkeyes stormed onto the court with a fire that couldn’t be extinguished. Their ball movement was crisp, their defense relentless, and their energy contagious. Every pass felt purposeful, every shot confident. Fans watching could tell this was a team that came ready to dominate.
Iowa, already one of the most electrifying teams in women’s college basketball, thrives on intensity. Led by star players and a coach who believes in fast-paced, high-IQ basketball, they embody the spirit of teamwork and determination. But sometimes, motivation comes from outside the locker room—and in this case, it was the voice of a bus driver who knew just what to say.
As the Hawkeyes continue their season, one thing is clear: whether the assist comes from a point guard or the driver’s seat, this team is always ready to play.
