Iowa women's basketball in-state showdown: Holds off scrappy Iowa State

Iowa women's basketball team narrowly defeats Iowa State in a thrilling 67-58 win, led by superstar Caitlin Clark's 35-point performance.

The Iowa women's basketball team came into Ames as the clear favorites, boasting more experience than their opponents and a talented lineup, including one of the game's biggest superstars. Despite a tough challenge from a young and determined Iowa State team, the Hawkeyes emerged victorious with a 67-58 win in front of a packed crowd at Hilton Coliseum.

Led by superstar Caitlin Clark, who scored a game-high 35 points and grabbed nine rebounds, the Hawkeyes secured their ninth win of the season and avenged a previous loss to the Cyclones during their last visit to Ames in 2021. The game was a hard-fought battle, featuring nine ties and 12 lead changes, with both teams deadlocked at 34-34 at halftime.

Clark's dominating performance, including reaching 3,000 career points, helped Iowa gain momentum in the third quarter. However, the Cyclones fought back, taking a brief lead in the fourth quarter before Iowa rallied to secure the win. Despite Iowa State's efforts, they were unable to convert in the final moments of the game.

The victory further solidifies the Hawkeyes' position as a force to be reckoned with in women's college basketball. With a loaded team and a superstar player in Caitlin Clark, Iowa continues to showcase their talent and determination on the court.

Tommy Birch, a sports reporter for the Register, has been covering Iowa sports since 2008 and is a two-time Iowa Sportswriter of the Year. For more information, contact him at [email protected] or 515-284-8468.