IOWA CITY — The No. 22 Iowa women’s basketball team narrowly escaped with a thrilling 92-86 victory over the Northern Iowa Panthers, wrapping up their non-conference schedule on Friday night at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The Hawkeyes, now boasting a record of 10-2, seemed to have the game under control after building a substantial 18-point lead in the second quarter. Yet, the resilient Panthers clawed back, reducing the deficit to just one point with 4:38 left on the clock.
Throughout the heated encounter, UNI’s Maya McDermott shone brightly, scoring 30 points and drawing admiration from spectators and players alike. "She was undoubtedly one of the top guards in the nation," said UNI head coach Tanya Warren. Her performance showcased not only her scoring prowess but also her ability to inspire her teammates, with Kayba Laube contributing 20 points alongside her.
The energetic atmosphere was palpable as Iowa players rallied behind standout performances, particularly from guard Lucy Olsen, who led the Hawkeyes with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. Iowa's balance on offense proved valuable, with Hannah Stuelke also making significant contributions, scoring 15 points and providing notable defensive plays.
The game opened at a brisk pace, with the Hawkeyes swiftly establishing their dominance. After jumping out to a 23-12 lead by the end of the first quarter, Iowa maintained their offensive momentum, executing well and holding the Panthers to only five field goals before halftime. Despite their early dominance, Iowa faced stiff competition as the Panthers regained focus during the second half, particularly bolstered by McDermott's scoring and resolute teamwork.
Iowa finished the first half leading 53-37, but the Panthers turned the tide after halftime, intensifying their defensive efforts and taking advantage of Iowa’s shooting struggles. Coach Warren noted, "Our strong offensive execution laid the groundwork for our defensive improvement. Once we started scoring, we could switch up our defenses." The Panthers effectively capitalized on Iowa’s mistakes, with Iowa committing eight turnovers during the second half, which UNI converted to valuable points.
Despite Iowa’s early lead and home-court advantage, the Panthers remained wiry opponents throughout the contest. With the game hanging at 85-83 with just over a minute left, pivotal contributions from Stuelke, who scored and then blocked McDermott on the next possession, proved decisive. This sequence solidified Iowa’s hold, and Sydney Affolter secured the victory by nailing free throws to widen their lead.
Hawkeyes coach Jan Jensen emphasized the significance of the match, stating, "Winning is hard, and rivalry games are especially challenging. We had to respond when moments were tough, and we did what we had to do when it counted." This victory marked Iowa's successful capture of the unofficial state championship, marking their dominance over Iowa State, UNI, and Drake this season.
Reflecting on the performance, Jensen praised both teams’ efforts noting, "If you do not understand how good basketball is in the state, then I do not know where you have been." This sentiment captures the fierce competition within Iowa’s women’s basketball, as all four Division I teams actively face each other, promoting high-level competition.
The battle was not just about numbers; it was also about strategy, resilience, and teamwork. The Hawkeyes’ ability to make 11 of 12 free throws during the tumultuous final quarter was instrumental, showcasing their poise under pressure. Jensen noted, "Our fans really enjoy women’s basketball for the spirit. It wasn’t ever business-like; it is about passionate play and the emotional stakes involved."
Looking forward, Iowa will transition to Big Ten play, facing Purdue next on January 1. The Hawkeyes are now gearing up for this new challenge after overcoming UNI, with players like McCabe, who had been battling inconsistencies early this season, finding their rhythm and confidence at the opportune moment.
Both UNI and Iowa State have competitive aspirations this season, indicating the robustness of Iowa’s women’s basketball scene. With significant displays from both teams, particularly with McDermott’s recent scoring agility as one of the nation's premier players, the future of women’s basketball looks vibrant and promising.
This game was more than just another win; it was about pride, local rivalry, and showcasing the depth of talent across the women’s basketball spectrum for the state of Iowa. It underlined not only Iowa's abilities to rebound from recent setbacks but also the importance of community and competition, as they battle through non-conference games and onto their league schedule. With the season underway and the stakes high, every game stands as another opportunity to shine.
