Last updated Feb. 25, 2026, 4:16 p.m. CT
IOWA CITY — Even though the Iowa women’s basketball team might feel like they have a brief respite before the intense March Madness spotlight, the Hawkeyes understand that their concentration must not falter during this crucial concluding phase of the regular season.
Their initial test comes with a night game versus Illinois, slated for February 26th at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Both the ninth-ranked Iowa squad and the Fighting Illini are aiming to maintain their current winning streaks heading into the upcoming Big Ten Tournament.
Iowa coach Jan Jensen noted, “As we approach March Madness — and with some unexpected victories under our belt — we’re drawing more attention. Expectations are soaring, and the target on our back is growing too large.”
Jensen continued, “Therefore, my role as coach is to manage this situation and ensure the game against Illinois remains an enjoyable chance for us. We aspire to earn respect, to be the team everyone pursues. We welcome the pressure; it signifies a certain level of excellence. So, the question becomes, what do we do with it? That’s essentially my message: ‘Alright, we’ve arrived.'”
Considering this, here are three key points to observe prior to Thursday’s 8 p.m. face-off between Iowa and Illinois.
Can Iowa effectively move past recent successes without prematurely focusing on the approaching March Madness?
Following the emotionally charged Senior Day and a thrilling triumph against then-No. 5 Michigan, it would be understandable for the team to feel they’ve overcome a significant obstacle. This win not only secured the Hawkeyes’ spot as an NCAA Tournament host but also further demonstrated their potential as a formidable team progressing positively.
Nevertheless, Jensen, with her extensive experience, understands how rapidly circumstances can shift if the entire team isn’t fully focused. Much remains to be decided between now and Selection Sunday. Iowa’s performance during this period could significantly influence the momentum they bring into the NCAA Tournament.
Jensen reiterated a principle frequently voiced during the Caitlin Clark era, stating, “We’ve managed to stay focused and see pressure as a positive advantage.” She added, “Many people might assume, ‘They defeated Michigan, now they face (simpler games against) Illinois and Wisconsin to conclude the regular season.’ However, those of us involved recognize these games are often more challenging. Everyone gets excited for a major showdown, like an underdog challenging a top-ranked opponent. Now, the dynamic is reversed.”
She continued, “Our players grasp this, but it’s the external distractions that are the concern. I believe we simply need to treat this as what it is: an excellent matchup that moves us nearer to our objectives.”
This scenario bears a resemblance to Iowa’s experience several weeks prior, when they convincingly defeated then-No. 12 Ohio State on January 25th, marking their third consecutive win against a top-15 team. That victory, played before a full Carver-Hawkeye Arena on a Sunday, generated significant national attention for the Hawkeyes, but was unexpectedly followed by three consecutive defeats characterized by atypical performance.
This time, the Hawkeyes must transition more effectively.
What kind of reception awaits Aaliyah Guyton upon her return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena?
Given Iowa’s minimal activity in the transfer portal, it’s a rare occasion, but the Hawkeyes are set to encounter a familiar individual on the opposing team when they face Illinois. Sophomore guard Aaliyah Guyton is returning to Iowa City.
Guyton joined the transfer portal on March 31st, and Illinois confirmed her signing on April 12th. During her freshman year with Iowa, she averaged 16.4 minutes and 4.7 points per contest.
Her performance this season has shown comparable statistics with minor improvements. Across 23 games, Guyton is averaging 19.6 minutes, 6.4 points, and 2.3 assists, having started eight times. On February 11th, she achieved a personal best of 22 points during Illinois’ 92-60 victory against Wisconsin.
When questioned about the potential reaction from Carver-Hawkeye Arena fans regarding Guyton’s homecoming, Jensen expressed her desire for the most amicable return possible.
Jensen commented, “This is a new age, and sometimes young athletes and their families seek a slightly different environment. I regard Aaliyah Guyton as a genuinely wonderful person and an exceptional player, so I hold immense respect for her. And frankly, she’s performing remarkably well.”
She added, “Therefore, I would hope our supporters wouldn’t react negatively. Our fanbase doesn’t usually behave that way. I imagine a handful might (boo her) in an attempt to back Iowa, but that’s beyond my control. Once the game starts, Aaliyah will be competing for the Illini, and we will be focused on defending our home court. That’s simply how things are now.”
While such occurrences are rare, former Hawkeyes playing at Carver-Hawkeye Arena are held to a considerable standard. A prime example is Lauren Jensen, who famously sank the decisive three-pointer for Creighton in their stunning NCAA Tournament upset of Iowa in 2022.
Below is a summary of how former Hawkeyes have performed in recent matchups against Iowa.
- Shateah Wetering (UNI): Played 28 minutes, scored 11 points, grabbed 3 rebounds during a 92-86 loss (12/20/24); saw 25 minutes of action, tallied 4 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist during a 94-53 loss (11/12/23).
- Megan Meyer (Drake): Appeared for 33 minutes, contributing 11 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 5 turnovers in a 92-86 OT loss (11/13/22).
- Lauren Jensen (Creighton): Logged 36 minutes, scoring 19 points, securing 7 rebounds, and shooting 3-for-7 from beyond the arc in a 64-62 NCAA Tournament win (3/20/22).
Will Iowa’s improved defense persist when facing the inside-focused Fighting Illini?
Having effectively countered Michigan’s guard-centric offense, Iowa is now poised for a distinct challenge from Illinois.
The Fighting Illini heavily rely on their interior game, spearheaded by underclassman forwards Berry Wallace (18.8 ppg) and Cearah Parchment (13.6 ppg). With point guard Gretchen Dolan out for the season due to injury, Iowa is preparing for an intense contest in the paint.
Jensen explained, “Their big players are adaptable. They can drain three-pointers, and not just on the break. They’ll shoot off a flair, which presents a significant challenge for a center to defend. It’s already tough enough for a ‘5’ to manage a transition three-pointer — if you drop back too far or head to the block in transition, and they can hit it. That alone is demanding.”
She added, “Their offensive strategies force your post players into defensive roles typically handled by guards. That’s exceptionally difficult. Consider the Minnesota game.”
This comparison is unsettling, given that the Golden Gophers made 10 of 14 three-pointers in their victory at Iowa City. Hannah Stuelke’s adaptable defense will be particularly vital this Thursday.
Prediction: Iowa women’s basketball vs. Illinois
The Hawkeyes will face a formidable challenge from an Illinois team, recently seeded No. 8 for the NCAA Tournament by ESPN. However, consistent contributions from Ava Heiden, coupled with Stuelke’s continued defensive and rebounding prowess, should see Iowa clinch the victory. Expect Chit-Chat Wright to bounce back strongly after two difficult outings. Iowa 72, Illinois 65.
Dargan Southard works as a sports trending reporter, providing coverage of Iowa athletics for the Des Moines Register and HawkCentral.com. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or followed on Twitter @Dargan_Southard.