Iowa Softball Hosts Washington

Hawkeyes welcome Huskies in non-conference matchup

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:00pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the action and energy of a softball game, with sharp planes of navy, green, and red intersecting to create a dynamic, multi-angled visual.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes softball matchup between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Washington Huskies.Washington Today

The University of Iowa softball team will host the University of Washington Huskies in a non-conference game at Pearl Field in Iowa City on Wednesday, March 29th.

Why it matters

This is an important early-season matchup between two top-25 programs looking to build momentum ahead of conference play. Both teams have high expectations this season and this game could provide valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses.

The details

The Hawkeyes enter the game with a 15-8 record on the season, while the Huskies are 17-6. Iowa is led by senior outfielder Ava Utterback, who is batting .375 with 4 home runs and 15 RBIs. Washington counters with junior pitcher Gabbie Plain, who has a 1.42 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 83 innings pitched.

  • The game is scheduled for Wednesday, March 29, 2026 at 6:00 PM CT.

The players

Ava Utterback

A senior outfielder for the Iowa Hawkeyes softball team, batting .375 with 4 home runs and 15 RBIs on the season.

Gabbie Plain

A junior pitcher for the Washington Huskies softball team, with a 1.42 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 83 innings pitched.

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What’s next

The winner of this game will gain valuable momentum and confidence heading into their respective conference schedules.

The takeaway

This early-season non-conference matchup between two top-25 softball programs will provide an exciting preview of the talent and competitiveness that fans can expect to see from both teams throughout the 2026 season.