10 greatest college athletes from Iowa ranked: USA250 list
Iowa might be best known for its powerhouse wrestling program and passionate football fans, but the Hawkeye State has produced some of the most dominant college athletes in history. From Cy Young winners to Heisman finalists, Iowa's college sports legacy runs deep.
Our USA250 list highlights the 10 greatest college athletes from Iowa, drawing from the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and other Division I programs across the state. These athletes didn't just excel in their sports; they defined them.
Who tops the list of Iowa's greatest college athletes?
The list includes legends from football, basketball, wrestling, baseball, and track and field. Here are the 10 greatest college athletes from Iowa, ranked.
1. Dan Gable, Iowa (wrestling)
Dan Gable is arguably the greatest wrestler in college history. He won two NCAA titles at Iowa State before becoming a legendary coach at Iowa. His 1970 season saw him go undefeated with 29 pins, and he never lost a match in college. Gable's impact on Iowa wrestling is immeasurable.
2. Nile Kinnick, Iowa (football)
Nile Kinnick remains the only Iowa football player to win the Heisman Trophy, taking home the award in 1939. He led the nation in passing and rushing that season, and his name adorns Iowa's football stadium. Kinnick's legacy as a scholar-athlete and war hero endures.
3. Caitlin Clark, Iowa (basketball)
Caitlin Clark shattered records during her four years at Iowa, becoming the NCAA's all-time leading scorer in women's basketball. She led the Hawkeyes to back-to-back national championship games in 2023 and 2024, winning the Naismith Award twice. Clark's impact on women's sports in Iowa is historic.
4. Fred Hoiberg, Iowa State (basketball)
Fred Hoiberg, known as 'The Mayor,' was a standout guard for Iowa State in the 1990s. He led the Cyclones to two NCAA tournaments and remains the school's all-time leader in three-pointers. Hoiberg later returned to coach Iowa State to multiple Big 12 titles.
5. Chuck Long, Iowa (football)
Chuck Long finished second in the 1985 Heisman Trophy voting after a record-breaking season at Iowa. He led the Hawkeyes to a Big Ten championship and a Rose Bowl appearance. Long's 8,292 career passing yards set a school record that stood for decades.
6. Shawn Johnson, Iowa (gymnastics)
Shawn Johnson didn't compete for an Iowa college, but she trained at the Iowa Gym-Nest in West Des Moines and represented the state on the world stage. Her Olympic gold and silver medals in 2008 put Iowa gymnastics on the map. Johnson's influence on youth sports in Iowa is significant.
7. Marcus Fizer, Iowa State (basketball)
Marcus Fizer was a dominant force for Iowa State, leading the Cyclones to the Elite Eight in 2000. He averaged 22.8 points and 9.4 rebounds that season, earning Big 12 Player of the Year honors. Fizer was the No. 4 pick in the 2000 NBA draft.
8. Bob Jeter, Iowa (football)
Bob Jeter was a two-way star for Iowa in the 1950s, playing both running back and defensive back. He helped the Hawkeyes win the 1958 Rose Bowl and later played in the NFL. Jeter's versatility and toughness embodied Iowa football.
9. Megan Gustafson, Iowa (basketball)
Megan Gustafson was a force in the paint for Iowa, winning the 2019 Naismith Award as the nation's top player. She averaged 27.8 points and 13.4 rebounds per game that season, leading the Hawkeyes to the Elite Eight. Gustafson's work ethic and scoring ability set her apart.
10. John McNamara, Iowa (baseball)
John McNamara was a standout pitcher for Iowa in the 1960s, posting a 2.08 ERA over three seasons. He later became a successful MLB manager, winning the 1986 World Series with the New York Mets. McNamara's Iowa roots shaped his career.
What makes these Iowa athletes stand out?
These athletes represent the best of Iowa's college sports tradition. They excelled in their sports while embodying the values of hard work, resilience, and community that define the Hawkeye State.
From Dan Gable's wrestling dominance to Caitlin Clark's basketball brilliance, Iowa's college athletes have left an indelible mark on the national stage.
How does Iowa compare to other states?
Iowa's list is strong, but other states like Virginia and Texas have deeper talent pools due to larger populations. However, Iowa's focus on wrestling and basketball gives it a unique identity. The state's smaller size means its athletes often become household names.
This list is part of the USA250 series, which ranks the greatest college athletes from every state.
FAQ: Iowa's greatest college athletes
Who is the greatest college athlete from Iowa?
Dan Gable is widely considered the greatest, given his undefeated wrestling career and legendary coaching success.
How many Heisman winners has Iowa produced?
Only one: Nile Kinnick in 1939. However, several Hawkeyes have finished in the top 10.
What sport is Iowa best known for in college athletics?
Wrestling is Iowa's signature sport, with the Hawkeyes winning 24 NCAA team titles. Football and basketball also draw massive fan support.