The Iowa Women's Basketball program announced a high‑profile non‑conference matchup that will take place on November 15 at the Tyson Events Center in Sioux City, Iowa. The game will pit the Hawkeyes, currently ranked No.6 nationally, against the Vanderbilt Commodores, sitting at No.11 in the latest polls.
A historic reunion after nearly three decades
This contest marks the fifth all‑time meeting between the two schools and the first since 1997, a span of 28 years. Vanderbilt holds a 4‑0 edge in the series, highlighted by a 60‑54 win in the previous encounter.
Both teams enter the game with strong credentials. Iowa boasts a 5‑4 record against Southeastern Conference opponents over the past decade, while Vanderbilt brings a similarly balanced slate. The Hawkeyes' most recent test against an SEC foe ended in a Second‑Round NCAA Tournament loss to Oklahoma.
Iowa's coaching staff includes Jan Jensen, whose leadership has helped stabilize the program, and standout player Mikayla Blakes, who continues to be a focal point of the offense. Their presence adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming clash.
The Tyson Events Center will serve as the venue for the game, offering a modern facility that can accommodate a large crowd. Sioux City's central location in the Midwest makes it an accessible destination for fans traveling from both states.
Beyond the win‑loss implications, the matchup is expected to draw significant attention from media and sponsors, underscoring the growing prominence of women's college basketball. Both programs hope to leverage this exposure as they prepare for the rigors of conference play and the NCAA Tournament.