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Caitlin Clark Leads Iowa's Dominant Run

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 7:16 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Iowa, Nebraska, UNITED STATES

The Caitlin Clark Effect: Iowa's Dominant Run

Iowa's impressive 24-1 (14-1 Big Ten) record speaks volumes about the impact of superstar guard Caitlin Clark. Clark, widely considered the most exciting player in women's college basketball, has consistently put up extraordinary numbers, averaging over 30 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds per game. Her exceptional shooting range, court vision, and competitive fire have transformed the Hawkeyes into a national powerhouse. Beyond Clark, Iowa boasts a well-rounded roster with key contributions from center Kate Martin and forward Monika Czinano, providing a balanced attack that makes them incredibly difficult to defend. Analysts are increasingly focused on whether Iowa can maintain this level of performance through the postseason, where defensive intensity and physical play are heightened.

Nebraska's Fight for NCAA Tournament Berth

While Iowa is firmly in championship contention, Nebraska (13-12, 7-7) finds themselves battling for an NCAA Tournament berth. The Cornhuskers have demonstrated flashes of potential throughout the season, but consistency has been their biggest challenge. Led by senior guard Alexis Markowski, Nebraska relies on a strong inside game and a physical defensive approach. However, they often struggle against teams with elite perimeter shooting, a clear disadvantage against the Hawkeyes. Coach Amy Williams has emphasized the importance of rebounding and minimizing turnovers as key factors for success in tonight's game. A win against a ranked opponent like Iowa would significantly bolster Nebraska's tournament resume and provide a valuable momentum boost.

How to Watch: TV and Streaming Options

Fans can catch all the action live on FOX. For those preferring to stream, several options are available:

• Sling: The ESPN+ package provides access to the game.
• YouTube TV: The BASE package includes FOX.
• Hulu + Live TV: Subscribers to the Live TV package will also be able to watch the game.

These streaming services provide a convenient way to watch the game on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Key Matchups to Watch

The most compelling individual matchup will undoubtedly be Caitlin Clark versus Nebraska's defensive efforts. The Cornhuskers will likely employ a variety of defensive schemes, attempting to limit Clark's open looks and force her to pass. However, Clark's ability to create her own shot and draw double-teams makes her a difficult assignment for any defender. Another key area will be the battle for rebounds. Nebraska's size and physicality inside could pose a challenge for Iowa, but the Hawkeyes are known for their aggressive rebounding style. The team that controls the boards will have a significant advantage.

Looking Ahead: Big Ten Tournament Implications

The outcome of this game could have significant implications for the upcoming Big Ten Tournament. Iowa is currently leading the conference standings, but a loss to Nebraska could open the door for other teams to close the gap. Nebraska, meanwhile, needs to secure as many wins as possible to improve their seeding and potentially earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The Big Ten is shaping up to be one of the most competitive conferences in women's college basketball, promising an exciting finish to the regular season and a thrilling tournament battle.