Caitlin Clark, the unanimous All-American, led No. 1 seed Iowa to a 91-65 victory over Holy Cross in the first round of the women's NCAA tournament. Despite a challenging start and frustrations with missed shots, Clark finished with 27 points and 10 assists, showcasing her competitive spirit and desire for perfection.
Clark, known for her perfectionist tendencies, struggled early in the game but eventually found her rhythm. She acknowledged her competitive nature and expressed her love for the game, emphasizing her desire to win and see her team perform at their best.
The Hawkeyes, coming off a Big Ten Tournament championship win, faced a slow start against Holy Cross. Coach Lisa Bluder attributed this to a period of rust due to the team's extended break since their last game.
Iowa's defense played a crucial role in their victory, particularly in the second quarter when they outscored Holy Cross 25-9. Clark's improved performance and the team's offensive execution in the second quarter were key factors in securing the win.
Despite Holy Cross' efforts, including a strong showing in the First Four, they struggled to find their rhythm against Iowa's defense. The Crusaders' 3-point shooting was notably off, with only seven successful attempts out of 34.
Looking ahead, Iowa advances to the second round to face either West Virginia or Princeton. The team's focus on defense and offensive execution will be essential as they continue their NCAA tournament journey.
Overall, Iowa's victory showcased their resilience and ability to overcome early challenges. With Clark's leadership and the team's collective effort, they are poised to make a strong push in the tournament.
UP NEXT: Iowa will face either West Virginia or Princeton in the second round on Monday.
