In an electrifying display of talent, Caitlin Clark’s led the No. 4 Iowa Hawkeyes to a commanding 98-69 victory over Loyola Chicago. Clark’s exceptional skills were on full display as she recorded her 13th career triple-double, showcasing her prowess as both a scorer and playmaker.
Clark, the nation’s leader in scoring and assists, delivered an outstanding performance with 35 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists. Her remarkable ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game solidified her status as a key player for the Hawkeyes.
Despite a slow start that saw Iowa trailing by seven points in the first half, Clark’s leadership and determination propelled a comeback. The Hawkeyes closed the first half with an 8-2 run, establishing a 51-46 lead.
The turning point of the game came in the third quarter when Iowa embarked on a decisive 19-3 run. Loyola Chicago struggled to find offensive opportunities, with Iowa’s zone defense proving to be a formidable obstacle.
Hannah Stuelke added 20 points for the Hawkeyes, while Kate Martin contributed 19, and Sydney Affolter scored 10. The team’s collective effort, coupled with Caitlin Clark’s stellar performance, secured Iowa’s ninth consecutive victory.
Despite missing key defender Gabbie Marshall, who was absent due to illness, the Hawkeyes showcased resilience and adaptability. Head coach Lisa Bluder acknowledged the room for improvement but expressed confidence in the team’s progress.
Loyola Chicago, entering the game with a four-game winning streak, displayed competitiveness in the first half. However, their shooting accuracy declined in the second half, with Iowa’s defense tightening its grip.
Looking ahead, Loyola will face St. Bonaventure on December 30, while Iowa will resume Big Ten play with a home game against Minnesota on the same day. The victory serves as a testament to Iowa’s basketball prowess and Caitlin Clark’s instrumental role in leading the team to success.
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