Iowa’s upset over No. 4 USC was a statement win, both in terms of performance and emotional significance. The Hawkeyes played with intensity, fueled by Caitlin Clark’s jersey retirement, and executed a game plan that disrupted the Trojans from the start.
Key Takeaways
1. Hot Start and Resilience – Iowa’s 18-1 run in the first quarter set the tone. Even though USC responded with a 17-1 burst in the second quarter, Iowa managed to stay composed and battle back each time the Trojans made a push.
2. Lucy Olsen’s Dominance – Scoring 28 points, Olsen was the offensive engine, particularly in the fourth quarter. Her ability to score in crucial moments, including a key three-point play late in the game, helped Iowa seal the victory.
3. Addison O’Grady’s Impact – O’Grady’s 13 points and key assists complemented Olsen’s scoring, particularly in crunch time. Her ability to contribute beyond just points gave Iowa an edge in the closing moments.
4. USC’s Struggles – The Trojans’ 8-for-22 shooting performance from JuJu Watkins, coupled with their slow start (missing 20 of their first 22 shots), proved costly. Despite their depth and talent, they couldn’t fully recover from their early deficit.
5. Emotional Atmosphere – The game wasn’t just about basketball—it was a celebration of Caitlin Clark’s legacy. With 14,998 fans in attendance, the energy was palpable, and Iowa used that momentum to fuel a gritty performance.
Big Picture Implications
For Iowa – This win is a confidence booster in what has been an up-and-down season. At 15-7 (5-6 Big Ten), they still have work to do to solidify their NCAA Tournament resume, but this victory will stand out on Selection Sunday.
For USC – The loss snaps a 15-game winning streak and exposes some vulnerabilities, especially their ability to overcome slow starts. They remain a top team, but they’ll need to regroup quickly to maintain their high tournament seeding.
Final Verdict
Iowa’s ability to rise to the occasion in an emotionally charged environment speaks volumes about their potential. While Caitlin Clark’s presence loomed large, this was about the current Hawkeyes stepping up and delivering a defining win.
