Ava Heiden is listed on the B1G Honor Roll following Iowa’s dominant week.
The most recent addition to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ frontcourt to demonstrate their depth is a freshman forward named Ava Heiden. Heiden, one of the most influential young players in the conference thus far this season, deservedly earned a spot on the Big Ten Honor Roll after an outstanding week on both ends of the court.
Heiden demonstrated not only her consistency but also her increasing self-assurance in the paint by averaging 17.5 points, 12.0 rebounds, and back-to-back double-doubles in two games. Those figures are stunning for a player who is still getting used to playing in college. Her accomplishment is even more remarkable, though, because of how well she fits into Iowa’s system, which requires its frontcourt players to be both tough and versatile.
The timing of Heiden’s latest ascent is perfect. Opposing defenders have made every effort to stop Iowa’s perimeter attack because standout guard Caitlin Clark frequently drives the team’s offense. However, the Hawkeyes also have another weapon thanks to Heiden’s rise, one that may penalize teams inside when they overcommit outside.
Her ability to clear up the glass, finish through contact, and post up hard has given Iowa’s already potent offense a new dimension. Following Sunday’s victory, head coach Lisa Bluder remarked, “She’s been huge for us.” “Ava is performing all the small tasks, such as setting screens, grabbing rebounds, and playing defense. In terms of scoring, she is now truly discovering her rhythm. We love to see that kind of growth.
It’s simple to overlook the fact that Heiden is only a freshman. Her play feels much more seasoned because of her superb court awareness and ability to remain composed under pressure. She doesn’t push shots. Whether it’s dishing the ball out to shooters or sealing her opponent for an easy bucket, she chooses her moments, reads the defense, and makes wise choices.
Her two double-doubles this week were performances that changed momentum rather than merely being statistical achievements. Heiden dominated the boards in Iowa’s tough road victory, grabbing crucial rebounds that enabled the Hawkeyes to end possessions and reduce second-chance opportunities. She then put on another strong scoring performance at home, finishing with poise and strength around the rim.
Colleagues have also noticed. After the game, Clark described Heiden as “a force inside who’s just scratching the surface,” praising her effort. It says a lot when one of the best players in the country says that. Heiden’s enthusiasm has spread beyond the numbers. Iowa’s veterans praise her for her modest leadership, willingness to fight for a position, and hustle on lost balls. She is the type of player that every championship-caliber team needs—someone who can have a significant influence without the attention.
Heiden’s early career success is seen by Hawkeye supporters as a preview of what’s to come. Anchors like her will be necessary in Iowa’s post-Clark future, and if this week is any indicator, the program’s foundation is still in excellent hands. There are many gifted big men in the Big Ten, but few currently possess Heiden’s blend of confidence and effectiveness. It takes more than just her stats to earn a spot on the Honor Roll; it also depends on the tone she sets. powerful. steady. tenacious.
Don’t be shocked if this is just the beginning of many accolades for Ava Heiden as the season progresses. She’s rapidly becoming a household name, which is significant for Iowa.
