As the highly anticipated WNBA season kickoff approaches on May 14th, fans eagerly await the draft day, where teams aim to secure future stars for their rosters. Adding to the excitement, this year’s draft will feature in-person attendance for fans, a return to the pre-pandemic tradition last seen between 2014 and 2016 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Amidst the anticipation, all eyes are on the potential number one draft pick, Iowa’s standout player Caitlin Clark.

Clark, alongside 14 other talented prospects, has received invitations to participate in the draft. Notable names among them include Cameron Brink, Kamilla Cardoso, Rickea Jackson, Aaliyah Edwards, and more. However, one glaring absence from the draft invite list has raised eyebrows among fans: Gabbie Marshall, Clark’s teammate from Iowa.

Despite an illustrious collegiate career, during which she represented the Hawkeyes in an impressive 166 career games, Marshall finds herself excluded from draft considerations. The reason? Marshall’s primary focus remains on her studies, and she never formally expressed her intention to enter the WNBA draft. Aware that her collegiate tenure was nearing its end, Marshall chose to prioritize her team and the memories they were creating together.

In a statement to the media, Marshall reflected on her mindset for her final year, stating, “My mentality this year is to focus on my teammates. Just making the most of every opportunity that I get, all the memories that we’re making. I think it’s really bittersweet…I’m just trying to soak in all the memories off and on the court.” Despite not pursuing a professional basketball career, Marshall’s dedication to her team and her studies exemplifies her commitment to personal growth and her teammates’ success.

After graduating from the University of Iowa in 2023 with a degree in Health and Human Physiology, she’s now looking ahead to the next chapter in her academic journey. Her sights are set on pursuing a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at North Carolina. Despite being eligible for the WNBA draft, she’s chosen to prioritize her education and career outside of basketball.

While her basketball career may be coming to a close, her impact on the sport is indelible. Alongside Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin, she formed a legendary trio that will be remembered for years to come. Their journey, filled with triumphs and challenges, has solidified their bond both on and off the court. Marshall attributes much of their success to their chemistry and the guidance of Coach Bluder.

Interestingly, Marshall seems to be following in her father’s footsteps. Her father, a former college basketball player himself, played for four years at Bellarmine University in Louisville before pursuing a Master’s degree in business administration from Indiana University. Today, he holds a prominent position as an executive vice president at a global intelligent power management company. It’s clear that success runs in the family, albeit in different fields.

Despite falling short in two consecutive finals with the Hawkeyes, Marshall and her team have left an enduring mark on the world of collegiate basketball. Their legacy has contributed to elevating the NCAA to new heights. And while the focus may now shift from the court to the classroom, Marshall’s determination and drive are sure to propel her towards success in her chosen field.