INDIANAPOLIS — Lucy Olsen delivered an impressive performance with 21 points and facilitated a decisive play by assisting Kylie Feuerbach on a critical 3-pointer during the final minute, ultimately securing Iowa’s 74-61 triumph over No. 24 Michigan State. This victory took place on Thursday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, in the second round of the Big Ten Conference Tournament.
The Hawkeyes, supported by the enthusiastic cheer of former teammate Caitlin Clark, celebrated their 11th consecutive conference tournament win. This victory propels them to the quarterfinals, where they will face No. 8-ranked, third-seeded Ohio State. Notably, Iowa (22-9) has appeared in five of the last six Big Ten Tournament championship games.
Julia Ayrault initiated the game favorably for Michigan State with two 3-pointers in the first quarter, granting them a 16-12 advantage as the second quarter commenced. However, Iowa countered with a 16-0 surge, heavily influenced by Hannah Stuelke’s eight points. The Spartans briefly regained the lead during the third period, but a six-point streak by Ava Heiden allowed Iowa to take a 54-48 lead into the final quarter. Ayrault’s two successful free throws later trimmed the Spartans’ deficit to five, with 2:49 remaining. Subsequent to a pivotal turnover by Ayrault, Olsen made a crucial play by driving into the lane and passing to an open Feuerbach, who then hit a 3-pointer, extending the lead to double digits with just 54 seconds left.
Olsen concluded the game with five rebounds and contributed to Iowa’s defensive efforts with four of their 16 steals. Stuelke was impressive with a double-double, registering 12 points and 10 rebounds along with four steals. Taylor McCabe added 12 points, successfully hitting 4 out of 10 three-point attempts, while Ava Heiden contributed 11 points off the bench.
For Michigan State (21-9), Ayrault led with 17 points. Grace VanSlooten had a notable performance with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and Ines Sotelo contributed 11 points from the bench.
