Iowa’s loss to Nebraska was upsetting for many, including head coach Lisa Bluder.
Following the game, the Cornhuskers wound up going to media availability first. Traditionally, the away team will do such availability since they have to travel following the game.
According to one Nebraska reporter, the Hawkeyes didn’t show up to postgame availability until after Nebraska’s court celebration was over. While Nebraska’s SID (sports information department) told the room that it “could be disjointed,” they said that the Hawkeyes would be given the room when they showed up.
Since we’re doing this… Iowa didn’t show up to postgame until after the Nebraska’s court celebration was over. Nebraska’s SID told the entire room that “this could be disjointed” and that Iowa would be given the room when they showed up.
— Amie Just (@Amie_Just) February 11, 2024
Then Lisa Bluder lost her mind. https://t.co/5DloefhEHJ
It was during Nebraska’s availability that Bluder could be heard airing out grievances to the media operations and sports information departments, as Nebraska center Alexis Markowski spoke with reporters.
“We got a flight to catch,” Bluder complained. “This is bulls—. This is not Big Ten protocol.”
Bluder also complained about the in-arena production, saying “They play music while you shoot free throws?”
The Hawkeyes finished 9-for-15 on free throws. But Iowa star Caitlin Clark said during postgame availability that she “didn’t even notice” music being played during free throws.
“Whether it’s music or fans yelling at you, it doesn’t really matter,” she said. “You have to be able to make the free throw.”
Iowa led for much of the game but was outscored 27-10 in the 4th quarter, losing 82-79. Clark finished with 31 points, and is now 8 points away from breaking Kelsey Plum’s all-time record.
Iowa next plays Michigan at home on Thursday.