Iowa Hawkeyes Basketball Details
Traditionally known as more of a football school, the University of Iowa has made a name for itself on the basketball court in recent years. Though the team hasn’t made a deep run in the NCAA tournament in years -- they have played in the Final Four three times overall, in 1955, 1956 and 1980 -- the Hawkeyes are perennial contenders in the competitive Big Ten and a frequent competitor in the tournament. Coach Fran McCaffery has been the head coach of the Hawkeyes since 2010, and has been effective immediately, leading the team to three consecutive appearances in the NCAA Tournament (2014, 2015, 2016), something which had not been done for 23 years. Under McCaffery, the Hawkeyes have finished in the first division of the Big Ten for the last five seasons. They’re also one of three schools to have a Big Ten record of .500 or better five years in a row.
For the 2017-2018 season, the Hawkeyes have a strong group of new recruits joining the team. Luka Garza was the first recruit signed for the upcoming season. He’s ranked a four-star center and is described as a unique and effective player. With his 6’11” height and athletic ability, Garza will be a strong addition to the Hawkeyes and should make an immediate impact. Another recruit joining the team this season is Coach McCaffery’s son, Connor McCaffery. He’s a four-star shooting guard, but will be redshirting basketball while playing for the Hawkeyes baseball team his freshman year. Finally, Jack Nunge will also be playing with the Hawkeyes. He’s a power forward who’s a great outside shooter and defender. The Hawkeyes will be strong next season and will continue to work their way up in the Big Ten conference, seeking that elusive March Madness run.