Iowa Basketball: 3 takeaways from dismantling of Michigan State

1. In one of his best games as a Hawkeye, Jack Nunge provided much to be optimistic about moving forward

With Luka Garza struggling from the floor (3-10 2PT, 2-7 FT) – as well as sharpshooter Jordan Bohannon scoring just six – another scorer desperately needed to step up for the highly efficient Hawkeyes against the Spartans, and Iowa got just that in sophomore Jack Nunge.

Nunge has reached double-digits multiple times this season – six times prior to this game – but this may have been the best game of his career.  Tying his career-high in points with 18, Lunge recorded clips of 6-9 (2PT), 1-2 (3PT), and 3-3 (FT) to go with career-high marks in rebounds (11) and assists (six).

A critical missing piece from last year’s Iowa squad after suffering an injury on November 24th, Nunge has returned with a vengeance this season – albeit, on an inconsistent basis.  The sophomore has maintained averages of 7.3 points and 5.6 rebounds – and in games where he has reached double-digits, he is averaging 15 points and seven boards.

With CJ Frederick out of the lineup due to injury, Keegan Murray has now been placed into the starting lineup – and, despite playing well in his time among the starting five, only tallied six points in 16 minutes against the Spartans – and picked up four fouls in the process.  And, again, Garza only scored eight points.

Paired with Bohannon tallying six, the Hawkeyes needed offense from somewhere – and Nunge provided it.  With Frederick’s status still in doubt moving forward, Nunge’s development and flourishment could be pivotal for Iowa – particularly as they try to rebound from recent struggles.