UCLA’s women’s basketball team defeated No. 8 Iowa 88‑65 on Saturday night, extending its overall winning streak to 15 games and marking the Bruins’ eighth victory over a ranked opponent this season. The win solidifies UCLA’s No. 2 spot in the AP Top 25 and positions the program as a leading contender for a top seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
UCLA’s Offensive Execution
Senior guard Angela Dugalic delivered a career‑high 22 points, combining perimeter shooting with aggressive drives. Freshman forward Kiki Rice added 17 points and crucial rebounds, helping the Bruins dominate the glass in the second half. Together they accounted for nearly half of UCLA’s total points while the supporting cast contributed timely three‑pointers and defensive stops.
The Bruins shot over 50 % from the field and hit 12 of 28 three‑point attempts, a stark contrast to Iowa’s 38 % from beyond the arc. UCLA also forced 15 turnovers, many of which turned into fast‑break points that widened the gap early and never allowed the Hawkeyes to recover.
Iowa’s Struggles and Missed Opportunities
Iowa entered the game on a two‑game losing streak, but its offense sputtered against UCLA’s pressure defense. The Hawkeyes managed only 65 points, well below their season average, and shot just 35 % on second‑chance opportunities. Turnovers plagued the team, and a lack of secondary scoring left senior guard Megan Hawkins as the sole reliable option with 14 points.
UCLA’s bench contributed 28 points, maintaining pressure on Iowa’s starters throughout the contest and exposing the Hawkeyes’ depth issues.
Season‑Long Implications
With the victory, UCLA remains firmly entrenched at No. 2 in the AP Top 25 and holds the nation’s longest winning streak at 15 games. The win underscores the Bruins’ ability to execute on both ends of the floor against high‑caliber opposition and highlights the coaching staff’s preparation for marquee matchups.
For Iowa, the loss drops the Hawkeyes to No. 10 in the rankings and raises concerns about their capacity to secure a top seed in the NCAA tournament. Head coach Lisa Miller emphasized the need for greater composure in transition as the regular season winds down.
Looking Ahead
UCLA’s next test comes on the road against Pac‑12 powerhouse Oregon, a game that could further cement the Bruins’ claim to a No. 1 seed if they maintain their trajectory. Iowa will host unranked Nebraska in an effort to halt its skid and regain momentum before conference play intensifies.
The 88‑65 result clearly indicates where the two programs stand in the 2025‑26 season. UCLA’s blend of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and relentless defense positions them as a formidable force heading into March, while Iowa must regroup and close the gap to remain competitive in the tournament race.
