Iowa vs UCLA: How to Watch & Key Hawkeyes Stats | 2024 NCAA Tournament
IOWA CITY, Iowa – The Iowa Hawkeyes are headed back to the Elite Eight after dismantling Michigan 110-33 in the Big Ten Tournament, securing their fourth tournament title in the last seven years. Now, , they face a significant challenge in the form of the second-seeded UCLA Bruins in a battle for a spot in the Final Four.
Dominant Run to the Tournament Final
Iowa’s path to the Big Ten Tournament championship was nothing short of dominant. The Hawkeyes have consistently proven their strength within the conference, boasting a 110-33 record against Big Ten opponents since the season. This latest victory adds to a remarkable run of success, with Iowa having made postseason tournament appearances in 23 of the last 25 seasons, including 19 NCAA Tournament and four WNIT bids.
A Program Built for Postseason Success
The Hawkeyes’ recent history is marked by consistent excellence. They were the first program in the Big Ten to compete in back-to-back National Championships in and . Last season, Iowa tied Purdue and Maryland for the most wins in Big Ten history with 34. The program’s commitment to building a winning culture is evident in its sustained success, including nine consecutive 20-win seasons – the second-longest streak in program history.
Latest Leadership, Same Results
This season marks a new chapter for Iowa women’s basketball under head coach Jan Jensen, who took the helm on . Jensen has quickly established herself as a formidable leader, becoming the first coach in Iowa women’s basketball history to record 20 or more wins in her first two seasons. Her current record stands at 49-16 overall and 25-11 in conference play. Jensen surpassed former coach Lisa Bluder with 23 wins in her first season, demonstrating a seamless transition and continued success for the program.
A Pipeline to the WNBA
Iowa’s success isn’t just measured in wins and championships; it’s also reflected in the program’s ability to develop players who excel at the professional level. Six Hawkeyes – Kathleen Doyle, Megan Gustafson, Monika Czinano, Caitlin Clark, Kate Martin, and Lucy Olsen – have been drafted into the WNBA since , showcasing the program’s commitment to player development and its appeal to top talent.
Scouting the Bruins
UCLA enters the Elite Eight matchup with a strong resume of its own. The Bruins advanced through the Big Ten Tournament by defeating Washington 78-60 in the quarterfinals and Ohio State 72-62 in the semifinals. Notably, UCLA is second in the NET Ranking and boasts a 16-1 record against Quad 1 competition this season, highlighting their ability to compete against top-tier opponents. The series history favors UCLA, leading 3-1 overall.
What to Watch For
Iowa’s home-court advantage at Carver-Hawkeye Arena is a significant factor, with the team holding a 141-21 record in Iowa City dating back to . The Hawkeyes’ ability to maintain their offensive momentum and defensive intensity will be crucial against a UCLA team known for its strong play against top competition. The game will air on CBS, with coverage also available on the Hawkeye Radio Network, featuring Rob Brooks and Kathryn Reynolds.
Looking Ahead
This Elite Eight matchup represents a pivotal moment for both programs. A victory for Iowa would send them back to the Final Four, continuing their impressive postseason run. For UCLA, it’s an opportunity to solidify their status as a national contender. The game promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the nation’s elite women’s basketball teams, with the winner earning a coveted spot in the Final Four.
The Hawkeyes’ consistent ranking in national attendance – finishing in the top 10 for the past six seasons (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025) – demonstrates the strong support from their fanbase, which will undoubtedly be a factor in Sunday’s crucial game.