The Iowa Hawkeyes delivered a historic performance on November 5, 2023, defeating the Evansville Purple Aces with an astounding score of 119-43. This victory marks one of the most significant margins in the program’s history, as the Hawkeyes set a new record for the most points scored in a single game.
From the opening moments at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa established its dominance. The team started with a 9-0 run, and by the end of the first quarter, they held a commanding 29-10 lead. Sophomore Ava Heiden was a standout player, contributing a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Iowa’s offense shone brightly throughout the match, showcasing its depth with six players scoring in double figures. Second-year guard Chazadi “Chit-Chat” Wright led the team with 16 points, also recording 10 assists for her own double-double. Freshman Layla Hays impressed off the bench, scoring a career-high 20 points while adding three rebounds. Another notable performance came from freshman Addie Deal, who tallied 11 points and hit two three-pointers.
By halftime, Iowa had already put the game beyond reach. The Hawkeyes finished the first half with a 13-0 scoring run, bringing the score to 59-22. During this stretch, they connected on six consecutive field goals, including three-pointers from both Taylor Stremlow and Addie Deal.
The second half saw Iowa maintain its intensity, starting with another 9-0 run that pushed the lead to 68-22. The Hawkeyes continued to dominate, outscoring the Purple Aces 31-8 in the third quarter. While Iowa’s offense garnered much attention, the team’s defensive efforts were equally impressive. Evansville struggled to find its rhythm, shooting just 26.2 percent from the field. In the first half alone, Iowa forced several turnovers, recording six steals and creating numerous transition opportunities.
As the game progressed, Iowa’s relentless pressure left the Purple Aces unable to generate any offensive momentum. The Hawkeyes capped off their commanding performance with a final quarter score of 29-13, solidifying their historic victory.
This remarkable win not only highlights the Hawkeyes’ offensive prowess but also sets a tone for the rest of the season as they look to build on this strong start. The combination of experienced players and promising newcomers suggests a bright outlook for the team as they continue their campaign.
