Last Updated: March 24, 2026
If you’ve watched Iowa women’s basketball lately, you’ve probably spotted the loud, proud couple in the stands who cheer louder than anyone else. That’s exactly what makes Hannah Stuelke’s parents so special. As the 6’2” senior forward chases another strong season and recently hit 1,500 career points, her family’s story is one of love, sacrifice, and nonstop support. Born in July 2003, Hannah grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with basketball literally in her DNA. Today, we’re diving deep into the people who helped shape her into the Big Ten standout she is.
Table of Contents
Hannah Stuelke’s Basketball Roots Start at Home
Hannah didn’t just stumble into hoops — it was woven into her childhood from day one. Her biological parents both played college basketball, and that passion trickled down early. Mario introduced her to the game as a little girl, while her mom and stepdad turned every weekend into family road trips for AAU tournaments.
Growing up multiracial in Iowa, Hannah never felt out of place. She attended a diverse high school, earned Iowa Miss Basketball honors in 2022, and stepped onto the Carver-Hawkeye Arena floor ready to shine. Her family’s constant presence — from early camps to sold-out Big Ten games — built the confidence that helped her average double figures in scoring and rebounding as a senior. It’s no wonder fans often call her the heart of the Hawkeyes lineup.
Meet Her Biological Parents: Mario Davis and JoAnna Mantz
Hannah’s story begins with two talented athletes who crossed paths on the court. Her biological father, Mario Davis, hails from Antigua and Barbuda. He starred at Princess Margaret Secondary School, then suited up for Missouri Western State University’s Division II Griffons. Mario even represented Antigua’s national team until 2018 and played professionally back home until 2023, averaging solid numbers in his final season. Though he returned to the Caribbean shortly after Hannah’s birth, he stays connected — frequently posting proud messages on social media and celebrating her milestones from afar.
Her mother, JoAnna Mantz (often called JoAnna Stuelke-Mantz by fans), played at Illinois State before transferring to Missouri Western — where she met Mario. JoAnna now serves as Children’s Ministry Director at River of Life Church in Iowa. She’s the steady force who raised Hannah and has become a familiar face on local TV, dishing game insights on OnIowaLive. Together, Mario and JoAnna gave Hannah the athletic foundation and competitive fire that still fuels her today.
The Steadfast Support of Stepfather Michael Mantz
When JoAnna married Michael Mantz in 2005, Hannah gained a dad who stepped up in every way that matters. Michael isn’t just “stepdad” in name — he’s the guy packing the family van for every away game since Hannah’s AAU days. Along with JoAnna’s mom and sister, the Stuelke-Mantz crew turns road trips into cherished memories.
Michael once shared, “It is a lot of fun. We make a lot of memories and we travel as a family.” You’ve likely seen him and JoAnna on camera during senior day this February or after Hannah’s record-breaking 47-point night — clapping, hugging, and sometimes even tearing up. Their visible emotion in the stands has turned them into Hawkeye celebrities who happily pose for fan selfies. Michael’s steady presence helped Hannah feel secure while chasing dreams that took her far from home.
How the Family Keeps Fueling Hannah’s Rise in 2026
Fast-forward to Hannah’s senior season, and the family dynamic is stronger than ever. JoAnna and Michael are fixtures at every home and away contest. Mario cheers remotely but stays active online. The whole unit shows up — literally and figuratively — whether it’s big leadership moments or quiet post-game hugs.
- Travel squad goals: The extended family piles into the van for cross-country trips, keeping Hannah grounded amid the pressure of March Madness and senior-year expectations.
- Faith and balance: JoAnna’s role at church reminds Hannah that basketball isn’t everything — family, faith, and joy matter too.
- Social media love: Mario’s proud posts keep international fans engaged, while JoAnna’s TV appearances let Hawkeye Nation feel like part of the inner circle.
- Record-breaking moments: From Hannah’s 1,500-point milestone to clutch performances against Illinois and Penn State, the family celebrates every highlight together.
This blend of biological roots, step-parent dedication, and collective cheering has helped Hannah thrive under the spotlight.
Wrapping Up: A Family That Truly Shows Up
Hannah Stuelke’s parents — biological father Mario Davis, mother JoAnna Mantz, and stepfather Michael Mantz — prove that success in sports is rarely a solo journey. Their shared love of basketball, willingness to travel endless miles, and unwavering emotional support created the perfect launchpad for a Cedar Rapids kid to become a Big Ten star. As Hannah closes her Iowa chapter and eyes the next level, one thing is clear: her family will still be in the stands (or on the phone), cheering the loudest.
Whether you’re a longtime Hawkeye fan or just discovering her story, Hannah Stuelke’s family reminds us why we love college sports — it’s about more than points and rebounds. It’s about the people who sacrifice, celebrate, and believe right alongside the athlete.
Key Facts About Hannah Stuelke’s Family
| Family Member | Relation | Background Highlights | How They Support Hannah Today |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Davis | Biological Father | Antigua native, played at Missouri Western + national/pro ball | Active on social media, celebrates milestones |
| JoAnna Mantz | Mother | College player at Illinois State & Missouri Western; Church ministry director | Game-day staple, TV appearances, emotional cheerleader |
| Michael Mantz | Stepfather | Married JoAnna in 2005 | Travels to every game with extended family |
Thanks for reading! Drop a comment with your favorite Hannah moment or follow her journey as she finishes her senior season strong. Go Hawks! 💛🖤