No. 13 Iowa defeats Nebraska behind Ava Heiden's 27 points

Hawkeyes secure 10th straight 20-win season with road victory

Feb. 17, 2026 at 10:07pm

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Led by Ava Heiden's career-high 27 points, No. 13 Iowa defeated Nebraska 80-67 on Monday in Lincoln, Neb., to secure its 10th straight 20-win season. Heiden also grabbed 11 rebounds, while Taylor Stremlow scored a career-high 17 points and Chazadi Wright chipped in 14 points and seven assists for the Hawkeyes.

Why it matters

The win extends Iowa's impressive streak of 20-win seasons, showcasing the program's sustained excellence. Nebraska, on the other hand, has now lost five games in a row, putting their postseason hopes in jeopardy.

The details

Iowa shot 60.4% from the field, with Heiden making 12 of her 15 shots. The Hawkeyes built a 45-27 halftime lead, and while Nebraska cut the deficit to 11 in the third quarter, they couldn't get any closer. Iowa has now won 13 of the last 15 meetings against Nebraska.

  • The game was played on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • Iowa plays at Purdue on Thursday.
  • Nebraska visits Oregon on Thursday.

The players

Ava Heiden

A standout player for No. 13 Iowa, Heiden scored a career-high 27 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the win.

Taylor Stremlow

Iowa player who scored a career-high 17 points in the victory.

Chazadi Wright

Iowa player who contributed 14 points and seven assists to the Hawkeyes' win.

Britt Prince

Nebraska player who scored 13 points in the losing effort.

Eliza Maupin

Nebraska player who posted 11 points and six rebounds.

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What they’re saying

“Ava Heiden's performance was crucial in leading Iowa to this important victory. Her ability to score efficiently and rebound effectively was a key factor in the Hawkeyes' success.”

— Field Level Media

What’s next

Iowa will look to continue its winning ways when they travel to Purdue on Thursday, while Nebraska will try to end their five-game losing streak when they visit Oregon, also on Thursday.

The takeaway

Iowa's impressive 10-year streak of 20-win seasons highlights the program's sustained excellence, while Nebraska's recent struggles underscore the challenges they face in maintaining their postseason aspirations.