Iowa's victory over LSU in the Elite Eight propelled them to the Final Four, extending Caitlin Clark's collegiate career and dashing LSU's hopes of retaining their title. The Hawkeyes' 94-87 triumph in Albany, New York, sets up a matchup with the winner of the USC Trojans and Connecticut Huskies game in Cleveland.

The highly anticipated clash between Clark and LSU's Angel Reese occurred earlier in the tournament than last year's championship game. Reese, who had been a key player in LSU's victory, suffered an ankle injury in the second quarter but returned to the game. Despite her injury, Reese led LSU in rebounds, while Clark dominated in scoring and assists.

The third quarter saw Clark's dominance continue as she drained four three-pointers, giving Iowa a commanding lead. LSU's Mikaylah Williams attempted to rally her team in the fourth quarter, but Reese's foul-out with 1:45 remaining proved costly. Clark's remarkable performance, including a record-tying nine three-pointers, sealed the win for Iowa.

Iowa's next opponent will be either USC or Connecticut, who were set to face off in Portland, Oregon. The Huskies, led by Paige Bueckers, were favored to advance to the Final Four, while USC's JuJu Watkins posed a significant threat. The first quarter of their game was marked by a high pace and numerous missed shots, but USC ultimately pulled ahead. Bueckers and Watkins led their respective teams in scoring in the first half, setting the stage for an intense second half.