Iowa Resurgence in the Rankings
The Iowa Hawkeyes have officially ascended to the top 10 of the Associated Press women's basketball poll, a monumental achievement reflecting the team's grit and determination. This is the first time Iowa has cracked this prestigious list in two years!
In a season marked by remarkable talent and fierce competition, the Hawkeyes' rise signifies not merely a ranking, but a comeback fueled by tenacity and strategy. The last time Iowa found itself this high, it was amidst the brilliance of Caitlin Clark's senior year—a force of nature who captivated fans with her skills and charisma. Now, we delve into what makes this team tick and how they've reclaimed their place among the giants of women's basketball.
Top 25 Breakdown
As of January 19, 2026, the AP Top 25 Women's College Basketball Poll shows an unwavering dominance from UConn, who maintains their status as the unanimous No. 1 choice. They received all 30 first-place votes, showcasing not just their talent but their consistency, having won 34 consecutive games from last season.
Here's a brief look at the current rankings:
| Rank | Team | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | UConn (30) | 18-0 |
| 2 | South Carolina | 19-1 |
| 3 | UCLA | 17-1 |
| 4 | Texas | 19-2 |
| 5 | Vanderbilt | 18-0 |
| 6 | LSU | 17-2 |
| 7 | Michigan | 15-2 |
| 8 | Louisville | 18-3 |
| 9 | TCU | 18-1 |
| 10 | Iowa | 16-2 |
The Challenge Ahead
The road ahead for Iowa is undoubtedly packed with competition. The landscape of women's basketball continues to evolve, and each game presents new challenges that require a blend of tactical brilliance and mental fortitude. As outlined in discussions surrounding the conference superiority, we see how deep the SEC is, boasting nine teams in the Top 25 this week, which fundamentally shapes match-ups for Iowa moving forward.
Upcoming Games to Watch:
- South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt - a game not to miss!
- UConn hosting Notre Dame - a historical rivalry!
The Star Factor
As I reflect on Iowa's rise, it's clear that the heart of the team and the strategies they employ are pivotal. The Hawkeyes have effectively leveraged their strengths while identifying areas for improvement—an essential part of a winning mentality. It's not just about securing a spot in the top 10; it's about the individual contributions that matter.
We can't talk about Iowa without acknowledging Caitlin Clark, who, despite having graduated, set a culture of excellence. The impact she had on the program continues to resonate as the team evolves with new talent ready to step up and fill the shoes of a legendary player.
Final Thoughts
The women of Iowa are ready to show that their top 10 ranking is no fluke but rather a testament to hard work, experience, and exceptional coaching. As we dive deeper into this season, I'm excited to see how they adapt, how they overcome challenges, and how they soar above expectations.
Let's keep the eyes on the game and the heart in our coverage, because this season has plenty of action in store!
Source reference: https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/47661500/iowa-cracks-top-10-women-ap-poll-1st-2-years
