Iowa’s Caitlin Clark Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Getting past LSU was big for the Hawkeyes, but the Final Four is not their endgame.
“Job’s not finished,” Clark told ESPN after Monday’s win (h/t Jill Martin of CNN).
Getting to the next round, though, will involve getting past a UConn squad that has played some of the best team basketball in the tournament. Injuries have been an issue for the Huskies, but the stellar play of star guard Paige Bueckers has helped them overcome.
Bueckers has scored no fewer than 24 points over the last five games.
While the matchup between Clark and Bueckers might not draw as much attention as Monday’s Clark-Reese showdown, it’s still a thrilling one. Bueckers and UConn ended Clark’s first tournament run in the Sweet 16.
However, the more important matchup might be between Clark and UConn’s perimeter defense. The Huskies have some size, but they’ve been much more effective inside—ranking 13th in opposing two-point percentage and 36th in opposing three-point percentage.
Clark’s scoring and range have carried the Hawkeyes and may do so again on Friday. However, UConn is very accustomed to big games, and Auriemma always seems to have a plan.
This is going to be a fun one.
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