The Final Four matchup between Iowa and UConn in Cleveland ended with the Hawkeyes prevailing 71-69, in a game marked by intensity and quality performance from both teams. However, a crucial offensive foul call against UConn in the final moments dashed their chances of victory, leaving many questioning the outcome.
In the closing seconds, UConn had possession down by one point after KK Arnold’s steal on Hannah Stuelke. The play was set for Paige Bueckers to get a shot, but an offensive foul was called on Aaliyah Edwards, returning the ball to Iowa with 3.9 seconds left. This call essentially sealed the game for Iowa.
Aaliyah Edwards was called for an offensive foul on this possession. pic.twitter.com/1INxb2YHE2
— ESPN (@espn) April 6, 2024
Caitlin Clark’s strong performance, despite a slow start, was instrumental for Iowa, contributing 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Stuelke led all scorers with 23 points. For UConn, Bueckers and Edwards both scored 17 points.
4-POINT PLAY FOR CAITLIN CLARK 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lTsOjsegqU
— ESPN (@espn) April 6, 2024
Despite trailing by as much as 12 points in the second quarter, Iowa managed to close the gap and entered halftime trailing by just six points. They surged ahead in the third quarter, with Stuelke scoring 11 points and Clark making significant contributions, including a four-point play.
CAITLIN CLARK. OH MY 🔥 pic.twitter.com/FymV2dILrZ
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 6, 2024
The game remained tightly contested going into the fourth quarter, with Iowa eventually taking the lead early on. Although they led by as much as nine points, UConn continued to fight back, narrowing the gap to just one point with under two minutes left.
NIKA MUHL. CLUTCH THREE.
THIS GAME‼️ pic.twitter.com/hcBwTdPa7o
— ESPN (@espn) April 6, 2024
An Arnold steal provided UConn with an opportunity to win or tie the game, but the subsequent offensive foul call ended their chances. This controversial call elicited strong reactions from various personalities, including LeBron James and Gabrielle Union, who criticized the decision.
Despite the contentious ending, the game showcased excellent performances from both teams. Iowa advances to the national championship to face undefeated South Carolina in a rematch of last year’s Final Four, where Iowa emerged victorious.