The Iowa Hawkeyes women's basketball team kicked off their season with a decisive 91-73 victory over the Northern Illinois Huskies, marking a successful debut for new head coach Jan Jensen. Despite an early injury scare, the Hawkeyes showcased their depth and resilience, with six players scoring in double figures to secure a comfortable win.

Overcoming Adversity, Hawkeyes Demonstrate Depth and Determination

Stuelke's Scare Sparks Concern, but Hawkeyes Respond with Poise

The game's opening moments were marred by an injury scare when standout player Hannah Stuelke landed awkwardly and had to be helped off the court. The arena held its breath as Stuelke spent 15 minutes in the training room, but her return in the first half's final stretch and her subsequent performance in the second half allayed any concerns. Stuelke finished the game with 11 points and six rebounds, showcasing her resilience and the team's ability to overcome adversity.

Balanced Scoring Attack Overwhelms Northern Illinois

The Hawkeyes' offensive firepower was on full display, with six players scoring in double figures. Lucy Olsen led the way with 19 points, while Teagan Mallegni and Kylie Feuerbach each contributed 14 points. Addison O'Grady and Taylor McCabe added 12 and 11 points, respectively, demonstrating the team's depth and versatility. Feuerbach's all-around performance, which included nine rebounds, five assists, six steals, and a +22 plus-minus, further highlighted the Hawkeyes' well-rounded approach.

Third-Quarter Surge Seals the Victory

The Hawkeyes entered halftime with a modest double-digit lead, but they quickly put the game out of reach in the third quarter. A 20-9 run extended their advantage to a comfortable 22-point cushion, allowing them to coast to the final buzzer with minimal stress. This decisive stretch showcased the Hawkeyes' ability to capitalize on momentum and maintain their composure under pressure.

Injury Updates: Affolter, Guyton, and Johnson Sidelined

While the Hawkeyes celebrated their season-opening victory, they were without the services of several key players. Sydney Affolter missed the game as she continued her recovery from offseason knee surgery, while Aaliyah Guyton and Kennise Johnson were also inactive due to knee injuries. The Hawkeyes' depth was tested, but they demonstrated their ability to overcome these challenges and secure a convincing win.

Looking Ahead: Hawkeyes Set Sights on Virginia Tech

The Hawkeyes' attention now turns to their upcoming matchup against Virginia Tech on Sunday. After a successful season debut, the team will look to build on their momentum and continue their strong start to the season. With the depth and resilience they displayed against Northern Illinois, the Hawkeyes are poised to make a statement in their next outing.