The University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball program is set to open its 2026‑27 season with a two-game series against the Iowa Hawkeyes, beginning with a home matchup on November 8, 2026 in Storrs. The contest marks the first meeting of a scheduled series that will continue throughout the season, giving fans an early glimpse of the teams’ chemistry and depth.
A rivalry that spans decades
UConn and Iowa have met numerous times over the years, producing some of the most memorable moments in women’s college basketball. Their most recent encounter came in the 2024 Final Four, where Iowa secured a hard‑fought victory, and the two schools have traded wins and losses ever since. The Huskies hold a 7‑4 all‑time edge over the Hawkeyes, and they are 3‑1 when the contest takes place on Connecticut soil.
The last time UConn hosted Iowa in Connecticut was during the second round of the 2002 NCAA Tournament, and since then the Huskies have won every home game against Iowa in the state. Their most recent meeting in Iowa City ended with a 90‑64 victory for UConn in the 2025 Women’s Champions Classic, highlighting the competitive balance between the programs.
Adding to the story, seniors KK Arnold and Ashlynn Shade are the only players remaining from the 2024 national semifinal meeting, bringing a blend of experience and leadership to the new roster. Their presence underscores the continuity of a program that consistently recruits top talent while preserving a culture of excellence.
Looking ahead to the non‑conference slate
Beyond the Iowa series, UConn has already locked in five non‑conference opponents for the 2026‑27 campaign, including matchups in Cleveland, Boston and Brooklyn, while also traveling to Fort Worth and Ann Arbor for road tests. The schedule reflects a deliberate effort to test the team against diverse styles of play before conference action begins, ensuring the Huskies enter Big East play fully prepared.