The Iowa Hawkeyes showcased their offensive prowess on November 5, 2023, defeating the Evansville Purple Aces with a staggering score of 119-43. This 76-point victory at Carver-Hawkeye Arena marks one of the most lopsided wins in the program’s history and sets a new record for the most points scored in a single game by the Hawkeyes.
Early in the match, Iowa established immediate dominance, initiating the game with a 9-0 scoring run. The team maintained this momentum throughout the first quarter, ending with a commanding 29-10 lead. Sophomore Ava Heiden stood out, contributing significantly with a double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Strong Team Performance
The Hawkeyes’ offensive strategy was multifaceted, featuring six players scoring in double figures. Leading the charge was second-year guard Chazadi “Chit-Chat” Wright, who not only secured a team-high 16 points but also provided 10 assists, marking her own double-double performance. Freshman Layla Hays made a notable impact off the bench, scoring a career-high 20 points and adding three rebounds.
Another key contributor was freshman Addie Deal, who scored 11 points and hit two crucial three-pointers. By halftime, the game was largely out of reach for Evansville, as the Hawkeyes concluded the first half with a 59-22 score after a dominant 13-0 scoring run. During this stretch, Iowa executed six consecutive field goals, including three-pointers from Taylor Stremlow and Deal.
The second half saw Iowa continue their relentless pace, opening with another 9-0 run to extend their lead to 68-22. The Hawkeyes further solidified their control, outscoring Evansville 31-8 in the third quarter. Despite their efforts, the Purple Aces struggled to establish any offensive rhythm and were consistently thwarted by Iowa’s defensive strategies.
Defensive Dominance
Iowa’s defense was equally impressive, limiting Evansville to just 26.2 percent shooting from the field. In the first half, the Hawkeyes forced several turnovers, recording six steals that led to easy transition opportunities. As the game progressed, Iowa’s defensive intensity remained high, culminating in a fourth-quarter score of 29-13.
The overwhelming victory not only highlights the Hawkeyes’ offensive capabilities but also demonstrates their potential as a formidable force in collegiate basketball. With this performance, Iowa will look to build momentum as they advance further into the season.
In the aftermath of the game, it is clear that the Hawkeyes have set a high standard for themselves. As they prepare for upcoming challenges, this record-breaking win will serve as a significant milestone in their campaign.
