Iowa Falls in Latest Bracketology Update

Hawkeyes projected as No. 3 seed in March Madness

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:31am

While there are still plenty of chances for the Iowa Hawkeyes to work their way back to the top, they currently are projected to be a No. 3 seed in March Madness according to the latest Bracketology update. The Hawkeyes fell from a No. 2 seed after losing back-to-back games against USC and No. 2 UCLA.

Why it matters

Iowa was the No. 6 seed last season, so to see them rise to a projected No. 3 seed this year is impressive and a testament to how well second year head coach Jan Jensen has handled the team. However, the Hawkeyes will need to end the season on a high note to avoid falling much lower than a No. 3 seed.

The details

The latest Bracketology projection saw Iowa fall from a No. 2 seed to a No. 3 seed. This drop was expected after they lost back-to-back games for the first time all season. Iowa was tasked with playing at USC and No. 2 UCLA, and ended up dropping both games, leading to their new seed projection.

  • Iowa lost back-to-back games for the first time all season.
  • The latest Bracketology projection was released on February 4, 2026.

The players

Jan Jensen

Second year head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team.

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What’s next

With seven games remaining, Iowa knows they need to end the year on a high note. Minnesota and No. 24 Washington are their next two opponents, both at home, before they travel to Nebraska and Purdue. From there it's their battle against No. 8 Michigan and then they'll host Illinois a few days later. Finally, Iowa ends their season on the road at Wisconsin.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of finishing the season strong for the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team. While they have risen to a projected No. 3 seed in March Madness, they will need to continue winning to avoid falling much lower in the seeding. Coach Jan Jensen has done an impressive job in her second year, but the team will be tested in their remaining schedule.