The Iowa Hawkeye women play UConn Friday night in Cleveland in the Final Four. The Hawkeyes are 33-4 and making their second straight trip to the final four after a runner-up finish last year.
That’s Iowa coach Lisa Bluder. The game features two of the nation’s biggest stars in Hawkeye guard Caitlin Clark and UConn guard Paige Bueckers.
Bluder says with all the activities surrounding the Final Four it is important the players get enough rest prior to Friday night’s game.
Bluder felt the team took part in too many activities last year.
It matches an Iowa team that averages nearly 92 points per game against a UConn team that is averaging nearly 80 points per game.
Iowa star Caitlin Clark says while the atmosphere at the Final Four is fun the Hawkeyes have a job to do.
Clark says she has been impressed with the way UConn star Paige Bueckers has overcome injury to help the Huskies return to the national stage.
Iowa’s win over LSU Monday night was the most watched women’s game of all time but Clark says the ratings and increased popularity of the sport aren’t important when the games begin.
Iowa senior forward Kate Martin says while slowing down Bueckers is important it is more about how the Hawkeyes play.
Clark was asked about Cleveland being the end of the road for an Iowa team that captivated the nation with record television ratings and sold out arenas.
It’s an 8:30p.m. Iowa time tipoff in Cleveland.
