Monday’s highly anticipated match between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the LSU Tigers not only showcased two of the biggest stars in women’s college basketball, but it also made history by breaking a record that has stood for over 40 years.
According to ESPN, the game between Caitlin Clark’s Hawkeyes and Angel Reese’s Tigers drew a staggering 12.3 million viewers, making it the most-watched women’s college basketball game of all time. This surpasses the previous record of 11.84 million viewers set in the 1983 Final Four championship game between USC and Louisiana Tech.
The record-breaking viewership is a testament to the growing popularity and interest in women’s college basketball. It also speaks to the talent and skill of the players on both teams, who put on an electrifying performance that captivated millions of viewers.
But the record-breaking viewership was not the only highlight of the game. It was a thrilling rematch of the 2023 championship game, where the Hawkeyes sought redemption for their loss last year. And they did just that, with Clark leading the charge.
Playing all 40 minutes, Clark put up an impressive 41 points and 12 assists, leading Iowa to victory and securing their spot in the Final Four. She is the only player in NCAA history to achieve the 40-10 mark in points and assists in a tournament game, and she has now done it twice in her career, according to Stats Inc.
But Clark was not the only standout player for the Hawkeyes. Sydney Affolter scored 16 points and grabbed five rebounds, while Kate Martin contributed 21 points in a hard-fought game against the Tigers.
The Hawkeyes’ win sets them up for a highly anticipated matchup against the UConn Huskies in the Final Four on Friday. If they are able to secure a win, they could potentially face off against an undefeated South Carolina team in the championship game on Sunday, a matchup that would undoubtedly break the all-time viewership record yet again.
The excitement and buzz surrounding women’s college basketball has been building for years, and this record-breaking game only adds to the momentum. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these talented athletes, who continue to push the boundaries and break records.
But it’s not just about the numbers. This game was a showcase of the incredible talent, passion, and determination of these young women. It was a reminder that women’s sports are just as exciting and thrilling as men’s, and they deserve the same recognition and support.
As we look ahead to the Final Four and the potential for another record-breaking game, let us celebrate the achievement of these incredible athletes and continue to support and elevate women’s college basketball. Who knows, we may witness history being made once again.
