The rivalry between the Ohio State and Iowa women’s basketball teams, which dates back to 1983, has evolved into a significant matchup in the Big Ten conference. While their histories may not be as long as that of their male counterparts, the commitment to women’s sports has led to fierce competition, particularly in recent years as both teams have emerged as top contenders, showcasing a blend of young talent and veteran experience.
As the two teams prepare to face off in 2026, they enter the matchup with notable rankings, both breaking into the top 12 nationally. Iowa stands out as one of the few remaining undefeated teams in the conference, a testament to their resilience and competitive spirit. One of the most remarkable displays of this resilience came when Iowa overcame a 16-point halftime deficit against Indiana on the road. In another nail-biting contest against Maryland, the Hawkeyes recovered from a late 17-point lead to win in overtime, displaying the mental fortitude instilled by head coach Jan Jensen.
Jensen, in her second year as head coach but with 26 years of experience on the coaching staff, has cultivated a supportive and empowering culture. The team’s starting lineup features three seniors: forward Hannah Stuelke and guards Kylie Feuerbach and Taylor McCabe. While Stuelke’s scoring prowess is noteworthy, Feuerbach is crucial for her defensive skills, and McCabe’s three-point shooting adds a significant offensive threat.
This season, Stuelke has found her role as a hybrid forward, allowing her to leverage her skill set without the added pressure of guarding the opposing team’s tallest players. Her efficient shooting, with a 53 percent field-goal percentage and impressive averages of 14.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, highlights her growth and adaptability.
Sophomore center Ava Heiden has also made impressive strides, emerging as Iowa’s leading scorer after a quieter freshman year. Known for her elite post footwork, Heiden executes her offensive moves efficiently, positioning herself well for scoring opportunities while also contributing to the team’s overall game strategy.
Despite the rivalry and past controversies, such as the competitive heat generated by former Ohio State forward Cotie McMahon, Iowa fans have a range of feelings toward the Buckeyes. While rivalries with Iowa State and Nebraska are considered more heated, memorable encounters with talented Ohio State players have left their mark. The competitive spirit still resonates as fans remember past clashes and anticipate another exciting chapter in this longstanding rivalry.
As the teams gear up for their Sunday matchup, the combination of competitive history, skilled individual players, and passionate fanbases guarantees an exciting atmosphere filled with anticipation for high-level women’s basketball.