Waterloo Native Joins Iowa Women's Basketball Squad
Leo Christensen helps the Iowa women's basketball team prepare for opponents as a practice squad forward.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Basketball
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Waterloo native Leo Christensen is currently in his third year as a forward for the Iowa women's basketball practice squad. The 6-foot-5 player helps the team prepare for game scenarios by simulating the plays of upcoming opponents.
Why it matters
The practice squad provides a vital role for the program by allowing players to simulate opposing teams during drills and rebound work. For student participants, the position offers benefits such as priority class registration and opportunities to travel with the team.
Christensen stands 6-foot-5 and recorded 767 total points, 451 rebounds, and 104 assists throughout his high school tenure at Columbus Catholic High School. During his 2023-24 senior season alone, he tallied 379 points and 193 rebounds over the course of his participation.
The players
Leo Christensen
He is a Waterloo native and Columbus Catholic High School alumnus currently serving as a practice squad forward for the Iowa women's basketball team.
Iowa women's basketball
This collegiate athletic program based in Iowa City relies on practice squad members to simulate opposing team strategies during training sessions.
The details
Christensen, who started 65 of his 67 high school games, secured his spot on the program by reaching out to a team manager. While he contributes to the team's preparation through drills and rebound work, he does not intend to pursue a career in college coaching.
Timeline
Christensen played his senior season of high school basketball during the 2023-24 academic year.
The 2026-27 Iowa women's basketball season is currently underway.
Season Trajectory
This integration of practice squad members follows the standard operating procedures of the NCAA practice player program protocols for supporting varsity team development. The use of supplemental players is essential for maintaining the competitive readiness required throughout the long 2026-27 season.
The practice squad helps the main roster execute specific scouting reports and simulate the size of future opponents during daily drills. This intensive preparation is designed to keep the primary varsity players game-ready for the remainder of the 2026-27 season.
The takeaway
The practice squad remains a cornerstone of varsity preparation by allowing players to train against simulated opposing game plans. Participants gain unique access to team resources and travel while balancing their own academic and personal priorities.
Further reading
For more on the local collegiate sports scene, check out our Basketball coverage.
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