“Who dey, who dey, who dey think gonna beat them Bengals?” This is more than just a chant—it’s a battle cry. A battle cry that Gabbie Marshall, a former member of the Iowa Hawkeyes is gonna lead come Sunday. 

Marshall may no longer be in the sports scene but her roots have drawn her back and how. Having won state titles as a high-schooler in Cincinnati, Marshall now returns to be named the “Ruler of the Jungle” by her hometown team. This comes just in time for their Sunday showdown against the divisional rival Baltimore Ravens.

Gabbie will be joining elites like the legendary UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley, as one of the few celebrities who have had the privilege to lead the Bengal’s famous “Who dey” pregame ritual. The 2024 Naismith Coach of the Year, a long-time fan of the Bengals, opened for the team just last month as the team took on the New England Patriots for the Week 1 opener. Sunday’s game will be the only other home game for the Bengals so far this season.

It is since 2021 that the ‘Ruler of the Jungle’ ceremony has rapidly become one of the Bengals’ most cherished traditions. As noted on the official Cincinnati Bengals website a total of 34 individuals have ever held the honor — a role reserved for those who embody the spirit of Cincinnati and the fervor of its fanbase. Now, Gabbie Marshall is set to become the 35th to take on this prestigious mantle, cementing her as an iconic figure in the local sports scene. 

From NFL greats like AJ Green to the inspirational Dan Hurley, each Ruler of the Jungle has left their mark on Paycor Stadium, charging the crowd with energy and excitement. And now, it’s Marshall’s turn to bring her unique blend of intensity and charisma to lead the “Who Dey” chant.

Meet the Bengals’ 35th Ruler of the Jungle: Gabbie Marshall

Marshall’s appointment as Ruler of the Jungle is more than just a nod to her basketball achievements. It’s a celebration of her Cincinnati roots. The 24-year-old grew up in city her entire life until she left to become the standout at Iowa. A full circle moment really for Marshall.

During her time at Iowa, Gabbie Marshall, alongside Caitlin Clark, formed one of the most dominant backcourts in NCAA women’s basketball history. Known for her sharp shooting and tenacious defense, Marshall etched her name in Hawkeye lore by becoming the first player to tally 200 three-pointers and 200 steals,  while amassing over 1,000 career points. After five standout seasons under head coach Lisa Bluder, Marshall made the decision to step away from the game to pursue a Master’s in Occupational Therapy.

Though she chose not to enter the 2024 WNBA Draft, her influence both on and off the court remains undeniable, continuing to inspire those who watched her play. As Sunday approaches and the Bengals gear up for their AFC North showdown, the game will have a few more keen eyes awaiting.