In an exhilarating display of basketball prowess, the Iowa Hawkeyes secured an impressive 85-61 victory over Washington on January 22, 2025. The game, held at Alaska Airlines Arena in Seattle, showcased the Hawkeyes' resurgence from recent struggles. From the opening tip-off, Iowa's players demonstrated exceptional teamwork and shooting accuracy, leading to a dominant performance that saw them maintain a significant lead throughout the contest. Key players such as Lucy Olsen and Addison O’Grady were instrumental, with Olsen delivering a flawless shooting performance and O’Grady contributing significantly inside the paint. By the fourth quarter, Iowa's starters had already done their job, allowing reserves to gain valuable playing time. This win not only boosted the team's morale but also provided much-needed confidence for future games.

The Hawkeyes entered the game looking to break a losing streak and they did just that with a commanding first quarter. Iowa quickly established a strong presence both offensively and defensively, outscoring Washington 26-14. The team capitalized on its advantages, particularly in rebounding and scoring close to the basket. Sydney Affolter, Kylie Feuerbach, Lucy Olsen, Addison O’Grady, and Taylor McCabe formed a formidable starting lineup that set the tone early. O’Grady's dominance in the paint was evident, as she scored 10 points in the opening period, while Olsen showcased her sharp shooting skills, converting all her attempts.

As the game progressed into the second quarter, Iowa continued its hot streak. The team's shooting accuracy remained impeccable, especially from beyond the arc, where they hit eight consecutive three-pointers. Despite a brief scoring drought, the Hawkeyes responded with a decisive 10-0 run, further extending their lead. The halftime score of 50-26 reflected the team's superior performance, shooting an astonishing 74.1% from the field. O’Grady led the charge with 14 points, while Olsen contributed 13 points and six rebounds. The only hiccup was a series of turnovers, but this did little to dampen the team's spirits.

The third quarter saw more of the same dominance from Iowa. Feuerbach kicked off the scoring with a layup, and the team maintained its perfect shooting record for several minutes. Olsen's contributions were particularly noteworthy, as she reached 17 points by making all seven of her shots. The bench players also got opportunities to shine, adding depth to the team's performance. Coach Jensen's strategic planning paid off, as the Hawkeyes exploited matchups to great effect, leading to a comfortable 71-39 advantage heading into the final quarter.

The final quarter was a celebration of Iowa's success. With the game well in hand, the coaches brought in the reserves, giving them valuable court time. Mallegni added to the excitement by hitting a crucial three-pointer, bringing her total to seven points. The final score of 85-61 was a testament to the Hawkeyes' comprehensive performance. This victory not only marked a turning point for the team but also served as a confidence booster for players like Olsen, who found her long-range shooting stroke. As the Hawkeyes look ahead, this win sets a positive tone for their upcoming matches.