Iowa vs Baylor: Women's Hoops Showdown

Iowa Women's Basketball Faces Tough Test Against Baylor

The Iowa women's basketball team (4-0) rides into a major challenge Thursday night, facing off against No. 10 Baylor (4-0) in the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Showcase. After dominating opponents by an average of 46.5 points per game, the Hawkeyes face their first true test of the season at State Farm Fieldhouse in Orlando, Fla.

Sophomore guard Chit-Chat Wright leads Iowa's high-powered offense. - Image from https://www.bing.com/th?id=OIF.3NTvbZCBzOpmcZ5OlDk7Ig&w=120&h=120&c=1&pid=5.1

Where to Watch Iowa vs Baylor

Fans can catch the action on ESPN2 with tip-off at 8 p.m. CT. Mark Neely and Christy Thomaskutty will call the game, while the Hawkeye Radio Network (Jon Swisher and Kathryn Reynolds) provides the audio broadcast. Streaming options include Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers.

Key Matchup: Iowa's High-Octane Offense vs Baylor's Elite Defense

Iowa's early-season dominance has been fueled by four players averaging double-figure scoring, led by sophomore sensation Chit-Chat Wright. The guard is putting up 14.5 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting a blistering 66.7% from the field and 61.1% from three-point range. But the Bears present a stiff challenge with their physical frontcourt and defensive prowess.

Baylor counters with a star trio of Taliah Scott (24.5 PPG), Bella Fontleroy, and Darianna Littlepage-Buggs. Scott, a transfer from Auburn, has been particularly explosive after missing most of last season. The Bears' defense limited Duke to just 52 points in their season-opening win in Paris, setting the stage for a defensive battle.

Baylor's defensive trio looks to contain Iowa's scoring attack. - Image from https://www.hawkcentral.com/story/sports/college/iowa/basketball-women/2025/11/19/iowa-womens-basketball-baylor-prediction-preview/87338201007/

Three Things to Watch

Handling Adversity: With minimal close-game experience, coach Jan Jensen sees this as a crucial growth opportunity. "These kind of games... you win or lose the confidence," Jensen noted. "If you lose the game, it doesn't mean all is lost."
Slowing Scott: The Hawkeyes must contain Baylor's high-scoring guard. Wright's defensive tenacity will be key against the 24.5 PPG scorer.
Defensive Versatility: Iowa's young defense has been impressive but untested. Coach Jensen wants to see if her team can adjust schemes on the fly against Baylor's multiple looks.

Prediction and Outlook

While Iowa's offensive firepower keeps them in the game, Baylor's size and defensive experience may prove decisive. Analysts predict a back-and-forth affair ending with Baylor pulling away late in a 70-63 victory. Regardless of the outcome, this showcase provides invaluable experience against a top-10 opponent before Hawkeye Conference play begins.