Iowa Women's Basketball Sets Its Sights on a Historic Opener
The Hawkeyes will open the 2026‑27 campaign against Montana State on November 19, marking the first meeting between the two programs. The game, scheduled to be played in Iowa City, serves as the centerpiece of a carefully crafted non‑conference slate.
Montana State arrives with momentum after a 27‑8 season that included a 16‑2 run in the Big Sky Conference and a run to the Women’s National Invitation Tournament quarterfinals. The Bobcats’ recent success adds a competitive edge to the matchup.
Iowa, fresh off a 27‑7 campaign that saw the team advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament, will look to build on that momentum. The schedule offers a broad testing ground before Big Ten competition begins.
The non‑conference slate also features contests against Towson, Eastern Illinois, UConn, Northern Iowa, Vanderbilt and Drake, spread across early November and early December. Each opponent presents a different style of play, offering the Hawkeyes a varied laboratory for experimentation.
A Strategic Roadmap for the Season
Coaches view the early slate as an opportunity to fine‑tune defensive schemes and develop offensive versatility. Younger players will gain valuable experience, while veterans aim to sharpen chemistry ahead of conference play.
Fans can expect a lively atmosphere in the arena as the Hawkeyes aim to start the season with a statement win. The game against Montana State will be streamed live, with tickets expected to sell out quickly.