Iowa fans may be hoping that coach Todd Lickliter has the tools he needs for his type of game play after finishing 13-19 last year, but they may be a little ahead of themselves. Lickliter prefers the slow down game, and while he is a good coach, his team this year may not be exactly up to snuff as far as wins and losses.

But then again, this is kind of mystery team, so a lot could happen either way. Tony Freeman’s transfer was a killer to the Hawkeyes, as he put up almost 14 points a game. Still, Cyrus Tate came on strong at the end of last year and could very well make up for some of those points lost, and long bomber Jake Kelly will be looked to lead the team–and with the three point line being moved back, he may be one of the premier shooters in the league.

The Hawkeyes are still very young, and 7 new players will don the black and gold this year. Devan Bawinkel, a transfer from West Virginia/JUCO, should provide immediate help to these young players and also should make an immediate impact offensively.

The overall look at the Hawkeyes is that the team has little depth overall, but decent experience in the starting five. Tate, Bawinkel, and Kelly will form a decent scoring duo, and Lickliter’s approach to discipline should bring the younger players up to speed quicker than most, but to ask for an NCAA berth at this point may be pushing it. An NIT bit and an over .500 record is definitely something that is within reach. Just a wait a couple of years, Hawk fans. They’ll get there.