UCLA Crushes Iowa to Win Second Straight Big Ten Tourney Title

Bruins cruise to 96-45 victory, claim 25th consecutive win

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The top-seeded UCLA Bruins dominated No. 9 Iowa from start to finish, cruising to a 96-45 victory in the Big Ten Conference championship game. UCLA led by 19 points at halftime and continued to pull away in the second half, led by Gianna Kneepkens' 19 points. The Bruins shot 50% from 3-point range and forced 19 Iowa turnovers, converting them into 26 points.

Why it matters

This victory marks UCLA's second straight Big Ten tournament title and extends their winning streak to 25 games. The Bruins' dominant performance showcases their depth, balanced scoring, and stifling defense, cementing their status as one of the top teams in women's college basketball.

The details

UCLA jumped out to a big lead in the first quarter, going on runs of 13-0 and 9-0 to take control of the game. The Bruins' swarming defense forced 19 Iowa turnovers, which they converted into 26 points. Six UCLA players scored in double figures, led by Gianna Kneepkens' 19 points. The Bruins shot 50% from 3-point range, while limiting Iowa to just 5-of-23 from beyond the arc.

  • The Big Ten Conference championship game was played on Sunday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Gianna Kneepkens

A UCLA player who led the Bruins with 19 points in the game.

Kiki Rice

A UCLA player who scored 15 points and dished out 8 assists.

Sienna Betts

A UCLA player who scored 14 points in the game.

Ava Heiden

An Iowa player who led the Hawkeyes with 15 points.

Addison Deal

An Iowa player who scored 11 points in the game.

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The takeaway

UCLA's dominant performance in the Big Ten tournament championship game showcases their status as one of the top teams in women's college basketball. Their balanced scoring, unselfish play, and stifling defense will make them a formidable opponent in the NCAA Tournament as they look to win their second straight national championship.