In a thrilling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Iowa Hawkeyes managed to outlast a determined Illinois team, securing a crucial 82-78 victory. It was a game that showcased the resilience and grit of the Hawkeyes, who started strong with a 10-0 run but found themselves in a battle as Illinois caught fire.
Illinois was impressive with their shooting, hitting 53 percent from the field and a scorching 58 percent from beyond the arc, sinking 11 three-pointers. Despite their offensive prowess, a few late-game turnovers proved costly for the Fighting Illini. Iowa capitalized on these mistakes, scoring 16 points off 11 Illinois turnovers, which ultimately made the difference in this tightly contested matchup.
The win was monumental for the Hawkeyes, securing them a top-four seed in the Big Ten Tournament, along with a much-needed double bye. This victory not only propels them into the tournament quarterfinals but also offers a valuable rest period before the next challenge.
Leading the charge for Iowa was Heiden, who shook off illness concerns to deliver a career-high 28 points on an impressive 72 percent shooting. Her performance was a testament to her determination and skill, providing the spark Iowa needed to cross the finish line.
Adding to the Hawkeyes' success was Taylor Stremlow, who recorded her first career double-double with 11 points and 11 assists. Her contribution was vital in orchestrating the offense and keeping the team steady through the ups and downs of the game.
With this win, Iowa keeps their hopes alive for a top-two seed, as they look ahead to their final regular-season game against Wisconsin. A victory there could further bolster their standing, but for now, the focus is on maintaining their momentum and preparing for the challenges of the Big Ten Tournament.