If you’re scrambling to figure out what time does the iowa game start today, you’ve come to the right place, especially since the schedule is packed with more than just a single tip-off. Today is Sunday, January 18, 2026, and the headline event is a massive Big Ten showdown at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
The No. 11 Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team is set to host the No. 15 Michigan State Spartans. The game starts at 7:00 PM CST. If you are on the East Coast, that’s an 8:00 PM ET start.
This isn't just another mid-season game. It’s a "Letterwinner Celebration" night in Iowa City, and with both teams ranked in the top 15, the atmosphere is going to be electric. Michigan State is currently riding a nine-game winning streak—their best start in program history—so the Hawkeyes have their work cut out for them.
Watching the Iowa Game: TV and Streaming Details
You aren't going to find this one on the local news or a random streaming site. The Big Ten Network (BTN) has the exclusive broadcast for the Hawkeyes tonight. Chris Vosters and Brenda VanLengen are scheduled to be on the call.
If you’re away from your TV, you can stream the action through the Fox Sports app, provided you have a cable login. For the radio traditionalists, the Hawkeye Radio Network will carry the play-by-play.
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But wait, there’s more Iowa sports today.
Earlier this afternoon, the Iowa women’s wrestling team took on Lehigh at noon. If you’re a fan of the "other" Iowa team, the Iowa State Cyclones women’s basketball team also played today, tipping off at 12:00 PM against Oklahoma State. It’s a busy day for hoops in the state, but the main event is definitely the primetime clash in Iowa City.
Why This Matchup Matters for the Big Ten Standings
Honestly, the Big Ten is a gauntlet this year. Iowa enters this game with a 15-2 record and a perfect 6-0 start in conference play. They just came off a solid 74-66 win over Oregon last Thursday. Michigan State is right on their heels at 17-1 (6-1 B1G).
Whoever wins this basically takes the driver's seat for the regular-season title chase. Iowa has been dominant at home, but Michigan State’s defense has been stifling lately. The Spartans just edged out Nebraska 73-71, showing they can win close games on the road.
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If you’re heading to Carver-Hawkeye, keep in mind that the doors usually open 90 minutes before tip-off. Parking in the lots near the arena can be a nightmare on game days, so getting there early is basically mandatory if you want to see the national anthem.
Key Players to Watch
Iowa’s roster has shifted in the post-Caitlin Clark era, but the talent hasn't dipped as much as critics expected. They play a balanced, high-tempo game that relies on transition points and smart interior passing. On the other side, Michigan State features a veteran backcourt that loves to press and force turnovers.
- Iowa’s Interior Presence: Look for the Hawkeyes to exploit the paint early to draw fouls.
- MSU’s Perimeter Defense: The Spartans lead the conference in steals; Iowa's guards have to be careful with the ball.
- The Crowd Factor: Carver-Hawkeye Arena is one of the toughest places to play in the country when it's sold out.
What Time Does the Iowa Game Start Today? Quick Reference
Because time zones are confusing and schedules shift, here is the breakdown for the Hawkeyes vs. Michigan State tonight:
- Central Time (Local): 7:00 PM
- Eastern Time: 8:00 PM
- Mountain Time: 6:00 PM
- Pacific Time: 5:00 PM
The game is being played at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, IA. Tickets are still showing up on secondary markets, but expect to pay a premium—recent listings were hovering around $40 to $60 for nosebleed seats.
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Preparation for Tip-off
If you're watching from home, check your BTN signal now. Sometimes these Sunday night games get pushed back a few minutes if the preceding program runs long, but 7:00 PM is the firm scheduled start.
Make sure your Fox Sports app is updated if you're streaming. Nothing ruins a game like a "forced update" screen right as the ball is in the air. If you're looking for the men's team, they aren't in action today; the Iowa men’s basketball team doesn't play until Tuesday, January 20, when they host Rutgers.
To stay updated on live score changes or potential delays, follow the official Iowa Hawkeyes social media accounts or check the live stats on the Hawkeye Sports website. If you are planning to attend future games, the next big home matchup for the women's team isn't until next month, as they head to Maryland later this week.