UCLA Women’s Basketball Dominates Iowa to Claim Consecutive Big Ten Titles
UCLA Women’s Basketball Triumphs in Big Ten Championship
INDIANAPOLIS — The UCLA women’s basketball team demonstrated its readiness for high-stakes competition by decisively defeating No. 2 seed Iowa, 96-45, in the Big Ten championship game. The victory, which took place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, not only secured UCLA a spot in the upcoming NCAA tournament but also marked an unprecedented moment in Big Ten history.
The 51-point victory represents the largest margin ever recorded in a Big Ten championship game, surpassing Iowa’s previous record of a 33-point win over Ohio State in 2023. Moreover, UCLA’s 34 assists set a new championship record and were a season high for the team.
In a game characterized by impressive shooting, the Bruins shot 63% from the field. Leading the effort was Gianna Kneepkens, who scored 19 points, while all five starters contributed significantly with double-digit scores.
“The team prepared well and executed the game plan effectively,” said Kiki Rice, who also played a pivotal role, finishing with 15 points and eight assists. Rice was subsequently named the tournament’s most outstanding player.
The Bruins took control early, limiting Iowa to just five points in the first quarter— the lowest for the Hawkeyes in any period this season. During a critical five-minute stretch, Iowa struggled, missing nine consecutive shots and committing four turnovers, which allowed UCLA to launch an 11-0 run.
UCLA extended its lead to 25 points by the end of the second quarter and further increased its advantage with consecutive three-pointers early in the third, stretching the score to 55-23. The team’s defense was instrumental, forcing 19 turnovers that resulted in 22 points in transition and holding Iowa to a mere 28% shooting from the field.
Despite the loss, Iowa’s performance in the tournament has likely secured them a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament.
UCLA will find out its seeding and bracket placement during Selection Sunday next week, ahead of hosting the first and second rounds of the NCAA tournament. This victory also extends UCLA’s winning streak to 25 games, dating back to November.
