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Caitlin Clark, Iowa women’s basketball bold predictions for 2024 Final Four

Originally posted on ClutchPoints | By Erin Achenbach | Last updated 4/4/24

As the women’s college basketball season reaches its zenith, all eyes are set on the highly-anticipated Final Four matchup between Iowa and UConn. This game not only features two of the sport’s most storied programs but also pits against each other two of basketball’s brightest stars, Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers. With history, pride, and a spot in the national championship on the line, let’s dive into some bold predictions for this thrilling encounter.

The stage is set for Friday at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, for a duel that promises fireworks. UConn, making its 15th appearance in the national semifinals within the last 16 years, faces off against No. 1 seeded Iowa this Friday night. Despite the Huskies’ storied success, their journey to this year’s Final Four has been nothing short of miraculous, overcoming injuries and adversity. On the other side, Iowa, led by the phenomenal Caitlin Clark, is making its mark and aiming to capture the title that eluded them last year.

This matchup is not just a game; it’s a showcase of resilience, talent, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. UConn’s quest to return to the championship game faces a significant hurdle against Iowa, a team driven by the desire for revenge and glory.

Bold predictions for the Iowa/UConn Final Four game

Iowa will win – by single-digit points

Iowa’s Caitlin Clark (22) reacts while playing West Virginia in a NCAA Tournament round of 32 game © Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK

The intensity and stakes of this game point towards a nail-biter finish. Historically, UConn has dominated Iowa in their last six meetings – the last time the Hawkeyes won between the two was Nov. 19, 1990, winning 58-41, per Maggie Vanoni of CT Insider. In their two most recent meetings in March 2021 and November 2022 – with Clark part of the team – Iowa lost 92-72 and 86-79, respectively.

However, there is a sense that the tide is ready to turn. Clark and her teammates have shown unmatched determination and skill throughout the Women’s NCAA Tournament. Their recent revenge victory over reigning champion LSU in the Elite Eight, led by Clark’s impressive 41-point performance, signals a team peaking at the right moment. Therefore, expect a close contest, decided by single-digit points, with Iowa edging out UConn to advance to the championship game. The combination of desire, a cohesive team effort and strategic gameplay will pave the way for Iowa’s victory.

The Huskies will test Caitlin Clark

Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) controls the ball against LSU Lady Tigers guard Flau'jae Johnson (4) in the fourth quarter in the finals of the Albany Regional in the 2024 NCAA Tournament at MVP Arena. © Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Caitlin Clark, a name synonymous with excellence in women’s basketball, faces a formidable challenge against UConn. The Huskies, aware of her capabilities, will deploy a strategy aimed at limiting her impact. While Clark is expected to deliver a solid performance, scoring in double digits, it won’t mirror her usual dominance on the court. The first time Clark played UConn in March 2021, she put up 21 points on 33% shooting from the field. She also turned the ball over five times in that game.

In her latest loss to UConn in November 2022, Clark shot just 9-24 from the field, and a meager 2-11 showing from the beyond the arc. To add insult to injury, UConn’s star player Paige Bueckers was sidelined that season due to an ACL injury.

The Huskies defense, now bolstered by the return of a healthy Bueckers, will focus on containing Clark, forcing other Hawkeyes to step up. The game will test Clark’s ability to adapt and influence the game beyond scoring.

Can Iowa conquer the historically great Huskies? UConn’s journey to this point, overcoming adversity in the form of several injured players, has been inspiring. Bueckers’ return and her exceptional play have added a compelling narrative to the Huskies’ season. However, Iowa’s quest for the title, powered by Clark’s historic season and the team’s revenge-fueled run through the tournament, sets the stage for a monumental showdown.≠

This article first appeared on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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