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Iowa Women's Basketball Named USBWA National Team of the Week
Hawkeyes defeat three ranked opponents, climb to No. 8 in AP poll
Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:23pm
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The Iowa women's basketball team was named the national team of the week by the United States Basketball Writers Association after defeating three ranked opponents last week: No. 15 Michigan State, No. 15 Maryland, and No. 12 Ohio State. Iowa climbed to No. 8 in the AP poll, its first Top 10 ranking since the final poll of Caitlin Clark's senior year during the 2023-24 season.
Why it matters
This recognition highlights the strength and success of the Iowa women's basketball program, which has emerged as a top contender in the Big Ten conference and national rankings. The team's ability to defeat multiple ranked opponents in a single week is an impressive feat that showcases their talent and competitiveness.
The details
The Hawkeyes have won eight consecutive games since a loss to UConn in late December. They will take on Southern California on Thursday at 8:00 p.m. and then face off against No. 2 UCLA on Sunday, which will determine the top spot in the Big Ten conference standings. Both Iowa and UCLA are currently undefeated in conference play with 9-0 records.
- The Iowa women's basketball team was named the national team of the week on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
- Iowa climbed to No. 8 in the AP poll on Monday, January 26, 2026.
- The Hawkeyes will take on Southern California on Thursday, January 30, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
- The upcoming game between No. 8 Iowa and No. 2 UCLA will take place on Sunday, February 2, 2026.
The players
Caitlin Clark
Former Iowa women's basketball player who was ranked as high as 11th this season before the team's recent climb to No. 8 in the AP poll.
What’s next
The upcoming women's basketball game between No. 8 Iowa and No. 2 UCLA on Sunday will determine the top spot in the Big Ten conference standings.
The takeaway
Iowa's women's basketball team has emerged as a top contender in the Big Ten and national rankings, showcasing their talent and competitiveness by defeating multiple ranked opponents in a single week and earning the prestigious USBWA National Team of the Week award.
