The Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball program is making headlines as it thrives in the first full season after the departure of star player Caitlin Clark and longtime head coach Lisa Bluder. The Hawkeyes have surged into the AP Top 10, marking a significant achievement in the so-called “post-Caitlin Clark era.” Their recent performances have not only silenced doubts but also positioned Iowa as a formidable contender in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
Building Momentum with Key Victories
This week, Iowa entered the AP Top 10 for the first time since Clark left for the WNBA in 2024. The team backed up its ranking with impressive wins against then-ranked No. 15 Maryland and No. 12 Ohio State. These victories extended Iowa’s winning streak to eight games, including three consecutive triumphs over AP Top 25 opponents—a program first.
Currently, Iowa stands at 18-2 overall and 9-0 in conference play, their best Big Ten start since 1996. The Hawkeyes have also demonstrated resilience, winning close games and overcoming late-game challenges, such as their overtime victory against Maryland after nearly losing a 17-point lead.
Offensive Prowess and Team Growth
Under second-year head coach Jan Jensen, Iowa has returned to prominence with a dynamic offense. The team averages 21.3 assists per game, ranking among the top three in Division I, and boasts a 49.4% field goal percentage. Multiple players contribute from beyond the arc, with sophomore point guard Chit Chat Wright leading the way at 48.2% from three-point range. Wright, a transfer from Georgia Tech, has emerged as a leader, helping the team maintain its offensive efficiency while improving defensive intensity.
Inside the paint, Iowa has consistently outperformed opponents, as seen in their 42-14 advantage over Ohio State and strong rebounding numbers. Sophomore center Ava Heiden and senior forward Hannah Stuelke have become key contributors, with Heiden averaging 16.4 points per game and shooting 63.5% from the field. The team’s high-low action and depth in the post have been crucial to their success.
Looking Ahead: Crucial Matchups and March Aspirations
The Hawkeyes are set for a pivotal road trip to Los Angeles, where they will face USC and No. 2 UCLA. The matchup against UCLA, featuring standout center Lauren Betts, is expected to be one of the most important games of the Big Ten season. Iowa’s ability to compete in the paint and maintain offensive discipline will be tested against the Bruins’ formidable defense.
Despite some injury setbacks, including the likely absence of senior guard Taylor McCabe, Iowa’s depth and adaptability have kept them competitive. The team’s recent run of form, combined with a legacy of strong post play, has made them a dangerous opponent as the postseason approaches.
National Landscape and Notable Performances
Elsewhere in women’s college basketball, UConn remains the only undefeated team after Vanderbilt’s loss to South Carolina. The race for the national championship is heating up, with several teams, including Iowa, positioning themselves for deep tournament runs.
As the Hawkeyes continue to grow and adapt in the post-Clark era, their recent achievements signal that the program remains a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball.