2009-2010 Iowa Predictions
2008-09 Record: (15-17, 5-13 Big 10)
Coach: Todd Lickliter (3rd year, 28-36 at Iowa)
Assistants: Joel Cornette, LaVall Jordan, Chard Walthall
Ret. Starters/Lost: 3/2

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Overview: Iowa takes another step backward after freshman John Kelly (11.6ppg, 3.1apg) decided to transfer closer to home (Indiana State), after a really strong rookie season. That leaves sophomore Matt Gatens (6-5, 10.8ppg, 3.8rpg) as one of the top returning players. He’s an oustanding shooter, who hit 40.3 percent from three-point range last year. Another former starter Jeff Peterson, who decided to transfer to Arkansas, while David Palmer and Jermain Davis left for Division II schools. Gatens isn’t the only returner with some talent. Anthony Tucker, a 6-4 sohpomore (10.4ppg, 3rpg), is a powerful guard at 200 pounds. He can play the point or shooting guard, though Cully Payne, a 6-1 freshman from Illinois who originally committed to Alabama, will get a opportunity. Two other freshmen: 6-5 guard Eric May and 6-9 forward/center Brennan Coughill will have a chance to play right away. The other issue is lack of depth as it looks like the Hawkeyes will have 11 players not counting walk-ons. If they suffer injuries or lose players for some reason, it will make a long year seem longer.

Outlook: Lickliter probably didn’t know what he was getting into after arriving from Butler three years ago. Taking this job was a no-brainer, but they have a ways to go to catch up with the rest of the league that has passed them big-time.

This Big Ten conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college basketball betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com

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