The upcoming clash between the Ohio State and Iowa women’s basketball teams marks their first meeting of the season, with both squads boasting top-20 rankings in the Big Ten. The Ohio State women faced setbacks in the previous season against the Iowa Hawkeyes, particularly due to the prowess of superstar guard Caitlin Clark. In anticipation of their Sunday matchup, Bartt Pierce of Black Heart Gold Pants shared insights into the Hawkeyes’ performance and key players.
Discussing Iowa’s recent close games, Pierce acknowledged Coach Lisa Bluder’s adept decision-making and highlighted the team’s focus on the game at hand, despite Clark’s celebrity status. Guard Molly Davis emerged as a key contributor this season, showcasing her versatility after experiencing a reduction in playing time last year.
The absence of Monika Czinano, who graduated, has put the spotlight on Hannah Stuelke as Clark’s primary outlet in the paint. Stuelke’s impressive development under coach Jan Jensen has been noteworthy, although an injury sustained in a holiday tournament might keep her out of the upcoming game against Ohio State. In her potential absence, forwards Sharon Goodman and Addison O’Grady will need to step up.
With McKenna Warnock no longer part of the team after completing NCAA eligibility, Sydney Affolter has assumed a crucial role, displaying a hard-nosed and aggressive style of play. Affolter’s contributions in terms of minutes, points, and rebounds have filled the void left by Warnock.
Reflecting on Iowa’s lone loss to Kansas State and a narrow win over Michigan State, Pierce pointed out that Clark’s competitive nature and occasional attempts to do too much contribute to vulnerabilities. However, he acknowledged that Clark’s strengths far outweigh any weaknesses, and the key to slowing her down is often resorting to fouls.
The highly anticipated showdown between Ohio State and Iowa is scheduled for Sunday at noon, with NBC broadcasting the game. Notably, the game’s venue, the expanded arena, will open up upper deck seating typically closed off for women’s basketball, offering fans an enhanced viewing experience. Tickets for the game are still available.
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