So far, the women’s edition of March Madness has been devoid of the big upsets, except for one in particular, as the No. 10 Virginia Cavaliers have been able to upset No. 7 Georgia after qualifying in the First Four. However, their dream run has run into its biggest challenge yet: the No. 2 Iowa Hawkeyes. While Caitlin Clark is not leading the team anymore, they are still considered a contender and a very dangerous team.
Iowa is seen as the big favorite here, but the Cavs have shown that they could give the Hawkeyes trouble. Virginia is a double‑digit seed surviving deep into the second round, so a win over the No. 2 Hawkeyes could certainly upend things and demolish some people’s brackets.
Iowa vs. Virginia Women’s Basketball March Madness Second Round Projected Starting Lineups
Iowa Hawkeyes
- F Hannah Stuelke
- C Ava Heiden
- G Taylor Stremlow
- G Chazadi Wright
- G Kylie Feuerbach
Virginia Cavaliers
- F Tabitha Amanze
- F Sa’Myah Smith
- G Kymora Johnson
- G Paris Clark
- G Romi Levy
The Iowa frontline may be one of the scariest frontcourts in women’s college basketball today, with Hannah Stuelke and Ava Heiden coming off double-digit performances against FDU during the first round. Heiden in particular had 29 points and seven rebounds in the middle, while Stuelke had a double-double of 13 points and 16 rebounds.
However, it seems that the Cavaliers can match that rebounding game, as Sa’Myah Smith exploded for 23 points and 11 rebounds against Georgia, while guard Kymora Johnson brought in the scoring with 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists. This one promises to be a rebounding battle as both teams have potent frontcourts.
Iowa vs. Virginia Women’s Basketball March Madness Second Round Injury Report
Iowa Hawkeyes
- Taylor McCabe: Out
- Kennise Johnson: Out
- Emely Rodriguez: Out
- Jada Gyamfi: Out
Virginia Cavaliers
- Olivia McGhee: Out
While the Cavs will be without Olivia McGhee, the Hawkeyes will be missing four players, including Emely Rodriguez, one of their best players, as she is dealing with a back injury. She has been out since February, and Iowa will surely miss her presence.
Iowa vs. Virginia Women’s Basketball March Madness Second Round Prediction
While Virginia has been very surprising so far, the Cavs may have run into a wall. Iowa has been very good this year and will probably come out on top. However, an upset from the Cavs would still be possible.
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