Iowa 111, Illinois-Springfield 66

Fran McCaffery promised his Hawkeyes would “push the ball,” and today they did just that against Illinois-Springfield in their pre-season exhibition game.

In an exemplary display of McCaffery’s up-tempo style, the Hawks overpowered the Prairie Stars, 111-66. Freshman Melsahn Basabe, the recruit who followed McCaffery to Iowa City, had 19 points. Eric May led the team with 21 points.

It was beautiful. My old man and I watched from our season ticket seats, where I should be watching most of the home games this season. But it should be noted that the sweet display of Hawkeye dominance was against UIS, a Division II school.

After almost matching the Hawks point-for-point for the first 10 minutes of the first half, the Prairie Stars fell behind for good. Iowa was too quick, too long, and too strong. Stellar efforts from Basabe, May, and freshman Zack McCabe gave the Hawks a nice cushion. Cully Payne looked much improved and appeared at ease in McCaffery’s style. He pushed the ball up the court, made quick and smart feeds, and drove to the hoop. Transfer Bryce Cartwright was equally impressive at point guard.

Just about everybody except injured Matt Gatens was given playing time, and I think everybody scored. However, despite the impressive “win” (this game unfortunately does not count), the Hawks displayed their weaknesses, too. McCabe and Andrew Brommer (who, contrary to rumor, can actually ball) both had four fouls, and the team put the Prairie Stars in the bonus halfway through each half. The Hawks’ free throw shooting also begs for improvement.

Tonight I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Hawks play basketball. It was entertaining again, and the crowd immediately responded to the different style, standing to applaud when the first officials timeout was called. Needless to say, it should be an interesting, and fun, season.