The Iowa Hawkeyes defeated the LSU Tigers 94-87 in the Elite Eight, with Caitlin Clark leading the way with 41 points. The No. 1-seeded Hawkeyes got their revenge after losing to LSU in the national championship last season. Clark was on fire, making 13-of-29 shots, including 9-of-20 from beyond the arc. She also broke the NCAA Tournament career record with 12 assists in the game. The turning point came in the third quarter, as Iowa went on an 8-0 run to take an 11-point lead, with Clark draining four threes in the quarter. Despite LSU outscoring Iowa in the fourth, it was not enough to overcome the Hawkeyes.
LSU’s Flau’Jae Johnson led the Tigers with 23 points and made it a close game in the first half. However, Iowa’s strong start to the third quarter and Clark’s scoring prowess helped them secure the victory. Although Angel Reese had a hot start for LSU, she struggled in the second half after hurting her ankle. Reese finished the game with 17 points and 20 rebounds, but she went 1-for-13 from the field after her injury. Despite out-rebounding Iowa 55-37, LSU struggled to shoot efficiently, only making 38.6% of their field goals.
In addition to Clark’s dominant performance, Iowa had strong contributions from players like Kate Martin and Sydney Affolter. Martin shot 50% from the floor to score 21 points, while also grabbing six rebounds and two steals. Affolter added 16 points on 50% shooting, including two three-pointers. LSU’s Hailey Van Lith struggled offensively, going 2-of-10 from the field for nine points, while Mikaylah Williams scored 18 points on 6-of-16 shooting. Despite their efforts, LSU could not overcome Iowa’s offensive firepower.
With the win, the Iowa Hawkeyes advance to the Final Four and will face the winner of the USC-UConn matchup. Clark’s impressive performance and leadership were instrumental in securing the victory for Iowa and advancing them one step closer to the national championship. Iowa fans, particularly young Caitlin Clark fans, celebrated the win and her stellar play, referring to her as ‘the GOAT’ for her outstanding performance. The Hawkeyes will now prepare to face their next opponent in the Final Four as they continue their quest for a national title.
