The Iowa women’s basketball injury report is shaping up as the No. 10 Hawkeyes prepare to host No. 11 Ohio State in what promises to be another thrilling Big Ten clash. Iowa (17-2, 8-0 Big Ten) returns to Carver-Hawkeye Arena this Sunday for a 1 p.m. CT tipoff, and fans are eager to see how the Hawkeyes will navigate their current injury challenges against a talented Buckeyes squad (18-2, 7-1 Big Ten).
Iowa will again be without sophomore wing Emely Rodriguez, who has been sidelined with a lingering back injury. Rodriguez is set to miss her 14th straight game, leaving a noticeable gap in Iowa’s rotation. In the six games she’s played this season, Rodriguez averaged 7.2 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, hitting 42.5% of her shots. While the Hawkeyes have adapted in her absence, her scoring and defensive versatility are certainly missed, especially against a disciplined Ohio State team.
On the other side of the court, the Buckeyes are also dealing with an injury to a key player. Redshirt freshman guard/forward Kylee Kitts sustained a shoulder injury during Ohio State’s Jan. 19 win over TCU. Kitts missed the Buckeyes’ victory over Indiana earlier this week and is listed as out on Ohio State’s game day availability report. Her absence leaves a significant hole in Ohio State’s starting lineup, as she has been averaging 9.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 44.3% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc.
The matchup sets up as a test of depth, resilience, and strategy for both squads. Iowa has demonstrated remarkable adaptability without Rodriguez, leaning on its veterans and emerging talents to maintain its unbeaten Big Ten record. Players like Addie Deal have stepped up in key moments, giving the Hawkeyes reliable scoring options and leadership on the floor. Meanwhile, Ohio State will need other contributors to fill the scoring and rebounding void left by Kitts, highlighting the importance of bench depth in high-stakes conference play.
Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT and will stream exclusively on Peacock, giving fans a chance to watch this pivotal game live. Both teams are fighting to solidify their positioning in the Big Ten standings, making this clash critical not only for conference bragging rights but also for potential NCAA tournament seeding.
The Hawkeyes’ approach with injuries has been a mix of careful roster management and strategic in-game adjustments. Iowa coach Lisa Bluder has emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum despite setbacks, showcasing how the team’s resiliency has kept them steady in Big Ten play and on ESPN Bracketology radar. Meanwhile, Ohio State is looking to lean on its depth chart to weather the loss of Kitts, testing the flexibility of its lineup and the composure of its remaining starters.
Iowa’s injury report also has fans keeping a close eye on guard Taylor McCabe, whose status is pending after she exited a recent game with an injury. An MRI is expected to determine the severity, adding another layer of intrigue to the Hawkeyes’ preparations for Ohio State. How the team manages McCabe’s availability could play a pivotal role in the outcome, especially if the matchup comes down to perimeter shooting and guard play.
For fans, the stakes are high, the lineups are evolving, and the excitement is tangible. Iowa’s ability to remain undefeated in Big Ten play while navigating injuries is a testament to their depth, teamwork, and coaching acumen. Conversely, Ohio State’s battle with its own injury hurdles makes this a fascinating strategic contest, one where adaptability may outweigh raw talent.
With both teams missing key contributors, expect an intense, fast-paced game full of strategic adjustments, clutch performances, and plenty of moments that could swing the outcome. As the Hawkeyes look to extend their winning streak, and the Buckeyes aim to bounce back without Kitts, this matchup will be a must-watch for college basketball fans.
Stay tuned for live coverage and updates as Iowa and Ohio State battle it out in what promises to be a defining Big Ten showdown.
