IOWA CITY, Iowa — Iowa women’s basketball assistant coach LaSondra Barrett said sophomore forward Journey Houston has been the biggest surprise of the offseason.
Three-pointer after three-pointer, Houston stood out at Iowa’s open workout. Barrett said Houston’s response to being left off the All-Big Ten freshman team last season has fueled her development.
“I think the mindset she’s in — not making the freshman team, and you could argue that she probably should have been on there — but I think she didn’t let that bring her down,” Barrett said. “I think she’s probably gotten in even more workouts with Coach Randy than anybody. To see her put up the shots she’s putting up in the gym, you actually see the work.”
Barrett said Houston’s growth at the four spot could make Iowa’s offense more dynamic.
“She shot the crap out of it today, which is always good to see, because I think as she grows confident in those things at that four spot it’s going to be more dynamic,” Barrett said.
The Davenport native averaged 5.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game as a freshman, serving primarily as a backup to Hannah Stuelke in a two-post offense. Houston said she accepted that role and focused on contributing however she could.
“Once I realized I wasn’t going to be on the perimeter, my mindset was just whatever my coach wanted me to do — just do it the best I can to help my team out,” Houston said.
Houston said her three-point shot has developed significantly heading into her sophomore season.
“I kind of always knew I could do it, so actually seeing it happen and getting comfortable in the flow of a new offense is really helpful for my mindset,” Houston said.
Head coach Jan Jensen plans to run a four-out, one-in offense this season, with four players operating along the perimeter. Houston said the system requires versatility from everyone on the floor.
“With this new offense it’s kind of needed, because everybody has to have respect from the defense, so you have to be able to do everything,” Houston said.
Barrett said Houston’s skill set may translate well to the guard spot left open by Hannah Stuelke, who plans to play professionally overseas.
“Hannah brought one skill set for us and it was great, but I think Journey can adapt to that guard spot quicker,” Barrett said.
Barrett added that Houston’s work ethic positions her to be a threat this season.
“We all know she’s a gamer, and if she can be confident, she will be pretty dangerous,” Barrett said.
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