The 2018-2019 season brought many surprises, buzzer beaters, and great basketball for Iowa Hawkeye’s basketball. With many changes occurring off the court such as losing two starters and a strong role player, Iowa looks to write a new script this year on the court.
Their home opener on November 8th against Southern Illinois-Edwardsville was exactly the start they needed to this upcoming season. Winning the game 87-60, Luka Garza put on a show with his 6th career double-double scoring 20 points and securing 12 rebounds. Along with that exceptional performance, Joe Wieskamp started his sophomore campaign with 16 points on 5-10 shooting.
A surprise from last night’s game was the emergence of Jordan Bohannon in a backup guard role. Bohannon is currently nursing a torn hip labrum that he had surgery on this past May. He played 19 minutes off the bench scoring 9 points along with 4 assists to his name.
What Does Bohannon’s Presence Mean to Iowa?
Bohannon’s appearance could be the start of something big for Iowa. His bench presence for the Hawkeyes creates the depth they need to make a run in the Big Ten. Inserting him as a platoon along with the likes of CJ Fredrick, Connor McCaffrey, and Joe Toussaint creates a scary group of guards to go along with emerging star Joe Wieskamp. Plugin Luka Garza, Jack Nunge, or Ryan Kriener, and as a result you have an absolute mess for opposing defenses.
Above all, Iowa basketball is looking to use the three and solid ball movement to solidify themselves as a formidable offense. Nearly every player on the court can pull up from deep at all times. This creates spacing problems as the Hawks try to improve on a top 25 finish in assists this past season. Their zone press defense also creates endless opportunities for the offense.
Overall, The Hawkeyes are looking to improve on a great finish last season with Bohannon in a new role. Let the legend of J-Bo continue.