News Summary
The University of Arizona Wildcats women’s basketball team battled through significant foul trouble in a recent game against Iowa State, leading to a 90-65 defeat. Despite the challenges, the team demonstrated resilience, with standout performances from players like Noelani Cornfield and Sumayah Sugapong. The game showcased the demanding nature of Big 12 Conference play and highlighted the developmental journey of the Wildcats under their new coaching staff as they adapt to a largely new roster.
Phoenix, AZ — The University of Arizona Wildcats women’s basketball team recently faced a challenging road contest, battling through significant foul trouble against Iowa State on January 24, 2026. This game showcased the team’s resilience and the individual efforts of its players under demanding circumstances, offering valuable lessons in discipline and perseverance within the competitive landscape of collegiate athletics.
The encounter, which concluded in a 90-65 defeat for Arizona, highlighted the rigorous nature of Big 12 Conference play and the continuous development required for success at this level. Despite the outcome, the Wildcats’ commitment to competing with intensity, even when shorthanded, reflects the spirit of their program and the dedication instilled by their coaching staff.
Intense Competition on the Road
The January 24 matchup against Iowa State at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa, proved to be a difficult outing for the Wildcats. Iowa State secured a 90-65 victory, a contest in which Arizona encountered substantial foul trouble from early in the game. The game’s intensity led to numerous fouls, with 31 of the total 44 fouls called being against Arizona. This level of officiating directly impacted the Wildcats’ player rotation and strategic flexibility throughout the game.
Navigating Foul Trouble
A primary narrative of the game was the Wildcats’ struggle with fouls, which saw five players ultimately foul out. These players included Molly Ladwig, Kamryn Kitchen, Achol Magot, Nora Francois, and Noelani Cornfield. Compounding the challenge, one player also sustained an injury, leading to the Wildcats playing the final 2 minutes and 40 seconds of the game with only four players on the court. Despite this numerical disadvantage, the team demonstrated remarkable tenacity, with head coach Becky Burke noting that the Wildcats managed to outscore Iowa State during that particular segment of the game.
Individual Player Performance
In the face of adversity, several Wildcats delivered notable individual performances. Noelani Cornfield led the team in scoring with 19 points and also contributed five assists, showcasing her versatile playmaking ability. Sumayah Sugapong continued her consistent scoring, adding 13 points to mark her fifth consecutive game in double figures. Freshman Molly Ladwig, earning a starting spot, achieved a career-high 10 points, providing an offensive spark. Nora Francois was a key presence on the boards, leading the team with eight rebounds.
Game Flow and Strategic Adjustments
Iowa State established an early lead, shooting efficiently in the first half and building a 53-29 advantage. Despite the halftime deficit and mounting foul issues, Arizona showed signs of resurgence in the third quarter. The Wildcats outscored Iowa State 23-22 during this period, attributed to improved ball movement and defensive pressure. However, the accumulation of fouls and the reduced roster ultimately hindered their ability to sustain this momentum in the fourth quarter. The Wildcats concluded the game with a 68% free-throw percentage, making 11 of 16 shots from the charity stripe.
Context of the Season
This game against Iowa State was part of a demanding stretch for the Wildcats in their 2025-26 season, which is the team’s first under head coach Becky Burke. The University of Arizona women’s basketball program is in its second season as a member of the Big 12 Conference. The team’s overall record stands at 10-9, with a conference record of 1-7 following the Iowa State game. This season has seen the Wildcats bringing in 12 new players, eight from the transfer portal and four high school recruits, with redshirt junior Montaya Dew being the sole returning player from the previous roster. These statistics underscore the challenges inherent in integrating a largely new roster into a competitive collegiate season.
Building for the Future
The experience gained in high-pressure games, particularly those requiring players to adapt to unforeseen circumstances like significant foul trouble, is invaluable for player development and team cohesion. The Wildcats’ commitment to competing regardless of the score or on-court challenges reinforces principles of teamwork and individual responsibility. These experiences contribute to the growth of student-athletes, preparing them not only for future athletic endeavors but also for leadership roles within their communities, emphasizing resilience and strategic thinking. Looking ahead, the Wildcats will aim to apply these lessons as they continue their conference schedule, with their next game being against in-state rival Arizona State.
For those interested in the future of Arizona AZ higher education and the impact of its athletic programs, staying connected with the University of Arizona’s updates provides insight into the dedication and progress of these student-athletes. Explore more about University of Arizona AZ athletics and Phoenix AZ college news to witness how discipline and collective effort shape tomorrow’s leaders. The journey of these student-athletes is a testament to the enduring values of collegiate sports and their broader community impact.
| Statistic | Arizona (UA) | Iowa State (IowaSt) |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 65 | 90 |
| Field Goal Percentage | .424 | .545 |
| 3-Point Field Goal Percentage | .235 | .435 |
| Free Throw Percentage | .688 | .645 |
| Rebounds | 29 | 37 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 15 |
| Steals | 7 | 8 |
| Players Fouled Out | 5 | 0 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Arizona vs. Iowa State women’s basketball game on January 24, 2026?
The final score of the game was Iowa State 90, Arizona 65.
How many players fouled out for the Arizona Wildcats in the game against Iowa State?
Five Arizona Wildcats players fouled out in the contest against Iowa State.
Which Arizona players fouled out during the January 24, 2026 game?
The players who fouled out for Arizona were Molly Ladwig, Kamryn Kitchen, Achol Magot, Nora Francois, and Noelani Cornfield.
How long did the Arizona Wildcats play with only four players on the court?
The Arizona Wildcats played the final 2 minutes and 40 seconds of the game with only four players on the floor.
Who was the leading scorer for the Arizona Wildcats in the Iowa State game?
Noelani Cornfield led the Wildcats with a team-high 19 points in the game against Iowa State.
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