With the non-conference schedule ending on Dec. 21, it’s a great time to look at what Iowa basketball has coming up in the final 19 games of the Big Ten schedule. With the Big Ten likely to send anywhere from seven to 10 teams to the NCAA tournament, Iowa’s going to have to work for everything it gets if it wants to make another NCAA appearance.
The Hawkeyes shouldn’t have any problems securing a bid to the Big Dance, but they’re going to have a long slog to get through before they make it to Chicago and then their postseason destination. Most likely, Iowa’s going to need at least 11 wins in the Big Ten to get to the conference tournament feeling good about its chances.
Over the remainder of the season, there are a few games that should be circled on Iowa fans’ calendars, because they’ll determine where Iowa finishes in the Big Ten and what kind of seed the Hawks might earn.
Here are the games to keep in mind between now and the Big Ten tournament if you want to watch the Iowa Hawkeyes play in the next weeks.
Dec. 29: At Nebraska
The Cornhuskers might not be very talented, but there are two big reasons Iowa should be concerned about this trip to Lincoln. First, Iowa has a glaring weakness on defense in that it allows teams too many good looks at the hoop. That plays right into Nebraska’s strength because the Huskers rebound the ball well and convert on second-chance points. Second, Iowa has really struggled in Pinnacle Bank Arena.
The Hawkeyes have lost four of their past five trips to Lincoln, and they really can’t afford a defeat here.
Iowa does have an edge in Nebraska’s propensity to turn the ball over and allow easy baskets. The Hawkeyes have struggled here, but the reality is that in 2023, the two most manageable trips in the league are Nebraska and Minnesota. Iowa cannot afford to give away one of those two potential wins if it wants to contend for a league title.
Jan. 1: At Penn State
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