Iowa's Ava Heiden Earns Another B1G Weekly Honor

The Hawkeyes' star sophomore center has been named Big Ten Player of the Week for the third time this season.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 1:36pm

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Iowa Hawkeyes center Ava Heiden has been named the Big Ten Player of the Week for the third time this season. The sophomore has been dominant, averaging 24.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game in three conference wins over Nebraska, Purdue, and No. 6 Michigan. Heiden's efficiency has been remarkable, shooting 75% from the field during that stretch.

Why it matters

Heiden's continued excellence is a great sign for the Hawkeyes, who are relying heavily on their young star this season. At just a sophomore, Heiden is already establishing herself as one of the top players in the Big Ten and the country, and her development bodes well for Iowa's future.

The details

Heiden led Iowa to victories over Nebraska, Purdue, and No. 6 Michigan in a busy week for the Hawkeyes. In those three games, she averaged 24.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. Heiden shot an incredible 75% from the field during that stretch, going 33-for-44 overall.

  • Heiden was named B1G Player of the Week on February 23, 2026.
  • Iowa played three conference games in a one-week span from February 18-24, 2026.

The players

Ava Heiden

A sophomore center for the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team who has emerged as one of the top players in the Big Ten and the country.

Jan Jensen

The second-year head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“She's a beast. She's a baller. 🤭💪”

— Iowa Women's Basketball

What’s next

Heiden and the Hawkeyes will play their final regular season game at home against Illinois on February 26, 2026 before heading to Wisconsin for their season finale.

The takeaway

Ava Heiden's continued dominance as a sophomore is a testament to her talent and work ethic. Her efficiency and all-around production have been crucial to Iowa's success this season, and with two more years of eligibility, Heiden is poised to cement her status as one of the premier players in the Big Ten and the country.