Ava Heiden is Iowa’s efficient two-way engine in the paint
In the 2025-26 season, Ava Heiden emerged as Iowa’s leading scorer at 17.4 points per game while shooting 64.7% from the floor, adding 7.3 rebounds and earning AP and USBWA All-America Honorable Mention plus First Team All-Big Ten honors[4][8][11][15]. What makes her pop is the rare combo of touch, physicality, and consistency: she posted three straight Player of the Week-type stretches, including a week with 24.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 33-of-44 shooting, while also giving Iowa real rim protection with blocks and steals[3][12]. If you want a polished, high-efficiency center who can anchor both ends, she’s absolutely a fit[3][11].
