If you’re scrambling to figure out what channel is the hawkeye game on today, you aren't alone. It is Sunday, January 18, 2026, and Carver-Hawkeye Arena is basically the center of the universe for Iowa fans right now. Between a massive Top 15 women's basketball showdown and some mat action, there is a lot to keep track of.
Honestly, the schedule is packed. You’ve got the No. 11 Iowa women’s basketball team taking on No. 15 Michigan State, which is easily the "must-watch" event of the day. But there is also women's wrestling to consider.
Where to Watch the Iowa Women's Basketball Game
The main event is the Hawkeye women's basketball team hosting the Spartans. This isn't just a regular conference game; it’s a battle between two ranked powerhouses.
The Iowa vs. Michigan State game will air on the Big Ten Network (BTN). Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM CT. If you are looking to stream it, the game will be available through the Fox Sports app, but you’ll need a cable login that includes BTN. If you've cut the cord, streaming services like Fubo, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV all carry the Big Ten Network.
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Don't have a screen nearby? You can catch the call on the Hawkeye Radio Network. Rob Brooks and Kathryn Reynolds are usually the ones bringing the energy on the airwaves, and they cover pretty much the entire state of Iowa and parts of the surrounding Midwest.
Quick Game Facts
- Matchup: #15 Michigan State vs. #11 Iowa
- Time: 7:00 PM CT
- TV Channel: Big Ten Network (BTN)
- Live Stream: Fox Sports App / BTN+
- Location: Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa City
Hawkeye Women's Wrestling vs Lehigh
Before the basketball players take the court, the Hawkeye women's wrestling team has their own business to attend to. They are hosting Lehigh today at 12:00 PM CT.
While the basketball game gets the big national TV slot, wrestling coverage can be a bit more niche. Usually, these duals are streamed via B1G+, the Big Ten's subscription-based streaming service. If you are a die-hard fan of the mats, that's where you'll likely find the live action.
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Why This Michigan State Matchup Matters
It's kind of wild to see how Iowa has maintained this level of dominance. Even after the legendary 2023 and 2024 seasons, the Hawkeyes have managed to stay in the national conversation. They currently sit at 15-2 overall and are undefeated in Big Ten play at 6-0.
Michigan State isn't coming to Iowa City to play nice, though. Being ranked No. 15 means they have the firepower to pull off an upset in a hostile environment. Carver-Hawkeye has been a fortress lately—the Hawkeyes are 136-20 at home since 2016. That is a staggering winning percentage.
Brenda VanLengen and Chris Vosters will be on the TV call tonight. Expect a lot of talk about Iowa's nine-straight 20-win seasons. It's the kind of consistency that most programs would kill for.
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What Channel Is the Hawkeye Game on Today for Men's Basketball?
If you're looking for the men's team, you actually missed them by a day. The Iowa men played Indiana yesterday, January 17, and actually pulled off a solid 74-57 win at Assembly Hall. They don't have a game scheduled for today, so you can focus entirely on the women's squad and the wrestling duals.
Streaming Options for Cord-Cutters
If you’re staring at your TV wondering how to find what channel is the hawkeye game on today because you don't have traditional cable, here is the breakdown:
- FuboTV: Usually offers a free trial and includes BTN in their base package.
- YouTube TV: Solid choice for Big Ten fans as they carry all the conference networks.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes BTN and is a reliable way to catch the game.
- Sling TV: You generally need the "Sports Extra" add-on to get BTN here, so double-check your subscription level.
Actionable Steps for Fans
- Check your BTN access now: Don't wait until 6:59 PM to find out your login expired.
- Sync your clock: Remember the 7:00 PM start time is Central. If you’re watching from out of state, adjust accordingly (8:00 PM ET).
- Download the Hawkeye Sports App: It’s the easiest way to get live stats and radio feeds if you're on the move.
- Plan for Carver-Hawkeye traffic: If you're actually going to the game, give yourself an extra 30 minutes. The Jan 18 game is a "Letterwinner Celebration" night, so expect a bigger crowd than usual.
Whether you are watching the wrestling at noon or the basketball game at night, it's a big day to be a Hawkeye. Set your DVR for the Big Ten Network and get ready for some high-stakes basketball.