Iowa girls’ basketball is one of the most exciting and competitive sports in the state. With talented athletes, passionate fans, and storied rivalries, Iowa’s girls’ basketball teams have consistently delivered thrilling performances across high school gyms throughout the state.
Whether you’re a fan of the sport, a parent of a player, or someone interested in the upcoming season, understanding the Iowa girls basketball schedule for the 2025 season is essential. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2025 Iowa girls basketball schedule. From key matchups and standout players to regional tournaments and how you can follow the games, this guide provides in-depth insight into the season’s happenings.
A Rich Tradition of Success
Iowa has long been known for its strong high school basketball programs, and girls’ basketball is no exception. The state’s girls’ teams have a proud tradition of success, with several schools consistently competing at the highest levels in regional and state tournaments. Many teams from Iowa have gone on to produce top-tier college athletes, with many players moving on to national recognition in collegiate women’s basketball.
The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) governs the girls’ basketball season, organizing the state tournaments and setting the framework for schedules. The IGHSAU ensures that teams are balanced in terms of competition and that players have the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of packed arenas.
The Structure of Iowa Girls Basketball
The Iowa girls’ basketball season typically begins in the fall, with teams starting their official practices in November. The regular season stretches from early December to early February, followed by the district tournaments leading to the state championships in mid-March. The season is split into different classes, from 1A (smallest schools) to 5A (largest schools), based on school enrollment, ensuring competitive balance across the state.
Throughout the season, teams face off in both conference play (games within their league) and non-conference games (games against schools outside of their regular conference). This mixture of matchups gives fans and players alike the chance to see a wide range of opponents and styles of play, keeping the season fresh and exciting.
The 2025 Iowa Girls Basketball Schedule: Key Dates and Matchups
Season Kickoff: The 2025 Iowa girls’ basketball season kicks off in early December with teams playing non-conference games and beginning conference play shortly after. These early games provide a great opportunity for teams to set the tone for the season, while coaches work to develop team chemistry and strategy.
Major Conference Matchups to Watch
Iowa is home to several competitive conferences, including the Mississippi Valley Conference, Cedar Rapids Metro League, Little Hawkeye Conference, and others. These leagues often feature the most intense rivalries, with schools vying for the top spots in their division.
Some of the key matchups to look forward to in the 2025 season include:
Xavier vs. Linn-Mar: Two powerhouse teams in the Cedar Rapids Metro League will face off in what is expected to be a thrilling game, filled with future college stars.
Dowling Catholic vs. Valley: A classic 5A showdown between two of the state’s best teams, both with deep rosters and championship aspirations.
Des Moines Roosevelt vs. Waukee: These two strong schools will meet in an exciting 5A contest, with a lot of attention on how each team matches up strategically.
Sioux City North vs. Sioux City East: A rivalry game that is sure to bring high levels of excitement and competition to the floor, with both teams looking to assert themselves in the standings.
Regional and District Tournaments
As the season progresses, the focus shifts to the regional and district tournaments, which are critical for teams aspiring to reach the state tournament. In these tournaments, teams compete against others in their class for a chance to qualify for the coveted IGHSAU Girls State Basketball Tournament. The district tournaments will run in late February, culminating in the state tournament in March. These tournament games are often some of the most exciting of the year, with players battling for the chance to be crowned state champions. Expect the intensity to rise as schools with championship aspirations go head-to-head for a shot at the title.
State Tournament Schedule
The 2025 Iowa Girls State Basketball Tournament will be held at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, starting in mid-March. Teams that successfully make it to the state tournament will compete for state titles in their respective classes, including 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A. The state tournament provides an opportunity for teams to showcase their skills on a national stage, with scouts, media, and fans from across the state tuning in to see the state’s top players. The tournament will take place over several days, with quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship games determining the champions in each class.
Key Players to Watch in 2025
The State’s Top Recruits: Iowa’s high school basketball scene is filled with talented players, some of whom will go on to play in NCAA Division I, II, or III programs across the country. Here are some players to watch for during the 2025 season:
Emily Ryan (Ames High School) – A dynamic guard who can score and facilitate, Emily Ryan is one of the top recruits in the state and will be a key player for Ames as they pursue a state championship.
Morgan Vance (Dowling Catholic) – A dominant force in the paint, Morgan Vance’s ability to rebound, block shots, and score in the post makes her a player to keep an eye on as Dowling Catholic competes in 5A.
Madeline Moser (Waukee) – Known for her shooting range and leadership, Madeline Moser is a key scorer for Waukee, and she will be crucial to her team’s success as they look to make a deep tournament run.
Under-the-Radar Players to Watch
In addition to the big-name recruits, there are always players who fly under the radar but go on to make a major impact during the season. These players often provide the spark for their teams when needed and are capable of taking over a game when it matters most.
Anna Thompson (Xavier High School) – A versatile forward with a strong mid-range game and solid defense, Anna Thompson is a player who has the ability to contribute in many ways for her team.
Riley Johnson (Cedar Falls) – As a quick and crafty point guard, Riley Johnson can disrupt opposing defenses with her ability to drive to the basket and distribute the ball effectively.
Lauren Schmidt (Sioux City North) – An excellent shooter from beyond the arc, Lauren Schmidt can stretch defenses and create opportunities for her teammates, making her a player to watch in critical moments.
Watching the Games: Broadcasts and Streaming Options
Iowa girls’ basketball games can be followed in multiple ways, whether you’re watching from home or attending in person. Many games, particularly in the state tournament, are televised or streamed online. The IGHSAU provides a comprehensive list of games that are being broadcast, often in partnership with local TV stations and streaming platforms.
State Tournament: Games from the state tournament are usually broadcast live on local networks or streamed on the IGHSAU website. Fans can watch the best teams in the state compete for a championship from the comfort of their homes.
Local Broadcasts: Several local radio stations and TV channels provide coverage of games throughout the season, especially key conference matchups and regional tournaments.
Attending the Games
If you want to experience the excitement in person, attending the games is a great way to support your local team. Most high school gyms across Iowa are filled with passionate fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The state tournament at Wells Fargo Arena is particularly a must-see, as it brings together the best teams and players in the state.
Ticket Information: Tickets for regular-season games are typically sold at the door, while tickets for the state tournament are available for purchase online through the IGHSAU website. It’s important to purchase tickets early, especially for high-demand games like finals or semifinals.
Social Media and Online Platforms: For fans who are unable to attend the games, following the teams and players on social media is a great way to stay updated. Many schools, players, and coaches provide real-time updates on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Additionally, YouTube often hosts highlights from major games, so fans can rewatch key moments or catch up on missed action.
FAQs
What is the Iowa Girls Basketball season schedule for 2025?
The Iowa Girls Basketball season typically runs from November to March. The regular season begins in November with the first games scheduled shortly after the girls’ volleyball state tournament concludes. Teams play through the winter, with the playoffs (regional tournaments) taking place in February, leading up to the state championships in early March. For the most current schedule, you can check the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) website or local high school sports sites.
Where can I find the official Iowa Girls Basketball schedule?
The official Iowa Girls Basketball schedule is available on the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) website, where they provide schedules for each class and region. Additionally, local news outlets and school athletic departments often publish schedules for individual teams. Check with your school’s athletic director for the latest updates on team-specific schedules.
When does the Iowa Girls Basketball state tournament begin?
The Iowa Girls Basketball state tournament typically begins in early March. The state tournament games are held at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The tournament starts with the quarterfinals, followed by semifinals, and concludes with the championship games. The exact start date can vary from year to year, so it’s always best to check the IGHSAU website for the most up-to-date information.
How can I watch Iowa Girls Basketball games?
Many Iowa Girls Basketball games are broadcast on local television stations, online streaming platforms, and through the IGHSAU’s partnerships. Games at the state tournament level are frequently televised or available for streaming on platforms such as Iowa PBS or through other local sports networks. For regular season games, check your local TV listings or online platforms like the NFHS Network for potential streams.
What teams are ranked highest in Iowa Girls Basketball this year?
The rankings for Iowa Girls Basketball teams are updated regularly and can be found on various sports websites like the IGHSAU, Des Moines Register, and other sports media outlets. Schools like Johnston, Dowling Catholic, and Cedar Falls are typically among the top-ranked teams in the state, but rankings can shift throughout the season based on performances. Stay tuned to the rankings and match results to follow which teams are dominating in the 2025 season.
In Summary
The 2025 Iowa Girls Basketball Schedule is shaping up to be an exciting one, filled with competitive matchups, standout players, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re attending games in person or following along from home, there’s no shortage of drama and high-level basketball in Iowa’s girls’ basketball scene.
As the season unfolds, the intensity will only increase, culminating in the prestigious state tournament where the best teams in the state will battle it out for the championship. Fans, players, coaches, and families alike are eager to see how the season will unfold, and no matter which team you support, you can expect a thrilling year of Iowa girls’ basketball. Stay tuned, and don’t miss out on the action as Iowa’s girls’ basketball teams chase glory in the 2025 season.
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