UConn and Iowa look to win the 2K Classic after getting an upset in the semifinals. Which program gets a huge victory to add to their March resume?
TV schedule: Friday, November, 16, 6:30 pm. ET. ESPN2
Arena: Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York
Last season, both UConn and Iowa each finished with 14 losses and had some soul-searching to do. The Huskies fired their head coach and replaced him with Dan Hurley, while the Hawkeyes’ Fran McCaffery received the ire of fans in Des Moines. But with both teams returning the vast majority of their respective players, there was hope for the 2018-19 season for each.
So far, both teams are unbeaten, including an upset win in the semifinals of the 2K Classic. UConn defeated Syracuse 83-76, thanks to a barrage of three-pointers in a balanced effort. Six different players scored at least nine points, with reserve big man Eric Cobb having the greatest effect. He had 13 points and 13 rebounds off the bench, destroying the Orange’s 2-3 zone inside.
Alterique Gilbert had an all-around game, going for 16 points, six rebounds and eight assists. As a team, UConn shot 49% from the field against a good defensive program and going a decisive 12/21 from three-point range. They’ll look to repeat that effort against the Hawkeyes – who also looked good defensively in their game last night.
Iowa struggled shooting the ball in the team’s 77-69 win over Oregon. They 19/52 (36.5%) from the field and 10/29 from three-point range. However, they in turn limited the Ducks to 35.9% from the field, while out-rebounding them 46-35. Starting point guard Jordan Bohannon led the team with 16 points and seven assists, with backup forward Ryan Kriener scoring 11 points off the bench and winning his matchup with the 7’2 center Bol Bol.
When it comes to how Iowa and UConn match up, each side has their strength. The Huskies have a superior backcourt while the Hawkeyes currently have a better frontcourt. Which team’s strength comes forwards and plays better will give their team the edge.