Hawkeyes Crush DIII Opponent in Record-Breaking Win

Iowa baseball team defeats UW-Platteville 34-5 in early home opener

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Iowa Hawkeyes baseball team crushed Division III opponent UW-Platteville 34-5 in their home opener, setting a new program record for most runs scored in a single game. Head coach Rick Heller was pleased with the team's performance on the mound and at the plate, and the Hawkeyes will now travel to Boca Raton, Florida for a three-game series against Florida Atlantic.

Why it matters

This decisive victory over a lower-division opponent is an encouraging start to the season for the Hawkeyes, who will look to build momentum heading into their matchup against a strong Florida Atlantic team. The record-breaking offensive output also showcases the team's depth and firepower.

The details

In the Hawkeyes' earliest home opener in program history, they jumped out to a huge lead and never looked back, ultimately winning 34-5. Pitcher Nick Terhaar had a strong outing, and several Iowa players had notable offensive performances. The team will now shift its focus to a three-game series against Florida Atlantic in Boca Raton.

  • The Hawkeyes played their earliest home opener in program history on February 18, 2026.
  • Iowa set a new program record for most runs scored in a single game with their 34-5 victory over UW-Platteville.

The players

Rick Heller

The head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes baseball team.

Nick Terhaar

The starting pitcher for the Hawkeyes in their record-breaking win over UW-Platteville.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Hawkeyes will travel to Boca Raton, Florida for a three-game series against Florida Atlantic.

The takeaway

This decisive victory over a lower-division opponent is an encouraging start to the season for the Hawkeyes, who will look to build momentum heading into their matchup against a strong Florida Atlantic team. The record-breaking offensive output also showcases the team's depth and firepower.