Hawkeyes Overcome Late Deficit to Defeat Illinois

Iowa Women's Basketball rallies in fourth quarter for 82-78 victory over Fighting Illini

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team overcame a late six-point deficit to defeat the Illinois Fighting Illini 82-78 in a close contest at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The Hawkeyes trailed by as many as six points in the fourth quarter but made key plays down the stretch to pull out the come-from-behind victory.

Why it matters

This win keeps Iowa in contention for the Big Ten title, as they improve to 23-5 overall and 14-3 in conference play. The Hawkeyes showed resilience in battling back against a tough Illinois squad, highlighting their ability to win close games against quality opponents.

The details

Iowa jumped out to a 10-0 lead to start the game, but Illinois quickly responded with an 11-2 run to tie it up. The game remained close throughout, with the teams heading to the fourth quarter tied at 56-56. Illinois took a 64-58 lead early in the final period, but Iowa battled back to secure the victory. Ava Heiden led the Hawkeyes with a career-high 28 points, while Hannah Stuelke added 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Taylor Stremlow recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 assists.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 27, 2026 in Iowa City, Iowa.
  • Iowa trailed by as many as six points in the fourth quarter, as late as the 2:02 mark.

The players

Ava Heiden

An Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball player who scored a career-high 28 points in the game.

Hannah Stuelke

An Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball player who contributed 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists.

Taylor Stremlow

An Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball player who recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 assists.

Cearah Parchment

An Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball player who scored 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds.

Berry Wallace

An Illinois Fighting Illini women's basketball player who scored 21 points.

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What they’re saying

“We must have been down six with just a couple minutes left, but the team never gave up. They kept fighting and making plays to get us back in it.”

— Lisa Bluder, Iowa Head Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

Iowa will look to build on this comeback win as they continue their push for the Big Ten title. Their next game is on Sunday, March 2nd against Purdue.

The takeaway

This thrilling victory showcases the resilience and competitive spirit of the Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team. Their ability to rally from a late deficit against a tough conference opponent demonstrates their championship pedigree and will serve them well as they make a postseason run.