Ava Heiden Sparks Hawkeye Women’s Basketball Comeback Against Indiana
In a thrilling display of grit and determination, the Hawkeye women’s basketball squad staged a jaw-dropping comeback against Indiana, turning a 16-point halftime deficit into a 56-53 road victory in Bloomington. The win showcased the resilience, teamwork, and heart that have become hallmarks of this Iowa team.
The first half, however, told a very different story. Iowa struggled mightily on offense, going 0-for-8 from three-point range and shooting a dismal 25 percent overall. They could only muster 19 points while unranked Indiana dominated, surging to a 35-19 lead. The Hoosiers appeared to be running the game from start to finish, and for a moment, it seemed Iowa might be in for another early-season disappointment.
But halftime brought a spark. Head Coach Jan Jensen’s words clearly resonated. Iowa emerged from the locker room with renewed energy and focus. The defense tightened, and suddenly, the Hoosiers were held to just four points in the third quarter while Iowa poured in 19. By the end of the quarter, the Hawkeyes had flipped the scoreboard, taking a 39-38 lead. Their defense continued to shine in the fourth, allowing only 14 points and sealing a 56-53 victory.
Leading the charge was Ava Heiden, who scored 13 points and played a pivotal role in Iowa’s second-half surge. Chit-Chat Wright matched her scoring with 13 points, while Hannah Stuelke contributed a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. But when asked about the key to the comeback, Heiden didn’t point to a single basket or defensive stop—she credited the team’s “great chemistry.”
During her postgame media availability, Heiden emphasized how that chemistry allows the Hawkeyes to stick together in tough moments. “When we face challenges, we band together,” she said. “That’s how we overcome obstacles.” It’s a statement that encapsulates the Hawkeye women’s basketball identity: heart, unity, and resilience.
Even though the offense still struggles at times, Iowa has consistently found ways to win. Time and again this season, the squad has backed itself into corners, only to claw out victories through relentless defense, smart execution, and unwavering trust in one another. Each player understanding and embracing their role has been crucial, and it’s clear that everyone has bought into Coach Jensen’s game plan.
The comeback also underscored the importance of mental toughness in college basketball. Indiana had momentum, the crowd was loud, and the odds were stacked against the Hawkeyes. Yet, Iowa’s squad showed that belief and teamwork can often outweigh statistics and shooting percentages. They refused to panic, continued executing on both ends of the floor, and relied on their chemistry to fuel the rally.
For fans and players alike, this game will be remembered not just for the score, but for the attitude displayed. Heiden’s leadership, along with Wright’s and Stuelke’s contributions, exemplified how individual talent is amplified when the team moves as one cohesive unit.
Looking ahead, there’s optimism for Iowa’s offensive growth. The foundation is there: strong defense, chemistry, and confidence. As long as the Hawkeyes keep relying on each other and trusting the process, there’s no limit to what this team can achieve.
In the end, this victory over Indiana wasn’t just a comeback it was a statement. The Hawkeye women’s basketball squad has resilience, unity, and grit in spades, proving they can overcome adversity and turn the tide in even the most hostile environments.
