Iowa's recent victory over Nebraska came with a bittersweet twist, as the Hawkeyes now face a challenge with star forward Hannah Stuelke sidelined due to an upper-body injury. Despite returning to the court after a hard fall during the game, Stuelke will miss at least the upcoming matchup against Purdue, leaving fans hopeful for her return against No. 6 Michigan.
In their 80-67 triumph over the Cornhuskers, Iowa showcased dominance, largely thanks to Ava Heiden's impressive 27 points and 11 rebounds. However, the absence of Stuelke, who averages 13.8 points and leads the team with 8.8 rebounds per game, adds pressure to an already strained roster.
Coach Jensen remains optimistic, describing Stuelke as "day-to-day" with the hope of her return for the crucial clash with Michigan. The team is already coping without starting guard Taylor McCabe, who is recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus. Stuelke's leadership and skill on the court, alongside fellow senior Kylie Feuerbach, are vital to Iowa's success.
While the Hawkeyes may navigate the Purdue game without Stuelke, her presence will be crucial for the upcoming showdown with Michigan. As the team adapts to these challenges, the focus remains on maintaining their momentum and resilience in the face of adversity.