2013-2014 Big Ten Basketball Preview: #5 Iowa Hawkeyes

Last Season: The Hawkeyes made a surprise run at the bubble last season, ultimately finishing their season in the NIT tournament. This constituted a serious improvement over their last couple seasons. Devyn Marble did a bit of everything, including leading the team in scoring, and Aaron White is severely under appreciated after putting together one of the more complete seasons in the B1G last season. White was one of only 4 players in the Big Ten to average more than 12.8 points and 6.2 rebounds (along with Cody Zeller, Victor Oladipo, and DeShaun Thomas). Both of them return to Iowa City this season.

Departures: Eric May

Returning Players: Pretty much everyone, and I don't want to type them all out.

Newcomers: Peter Jok

What to Expect:  There are a few things that you can reasonably expect to see this season: some hilarious faces from Fran Mccaffrey (see below), an insane amount of depth, and quite possibly an NCAA tournament berth. The Hawkeyes return 9 of their 10 leading scorers from last year, with the only loss being glue guy Eric May. Marble and White will lead the way, while Melsahn Basabe and Adam Woodbury should retain their starting positions from last year. Basabe is an athletic, well-rounded forward that can block shots, and Woodbury is a 7'1" behemoth that has received very positive reviews from early practices this year. It is important to note that Iowa gets the added benefit of a Europe trip this offseason, and the 10 additional practices that go along with that. These 10 practices could help McCaffrey sort out his depth, with players such as Josh Oglesby and Zach McCabe back. Both are capable 3 point shooters, although newcomer Peter Jok could steal minutes from Oglesby on the wing.

Storyline to Watch: Gabriel Olesani. Olesani is a 6'10" player who has all the athletic tools you need. If his improvement is as significant as it has been rumored in some places, Iowa will have another dimension for opposing teams to worry about. His height is legitimate, and he can do this. Terrifying.

Final Prediction: 22-7 (11-7)
This will be a fun season in Iowa City. Athleticism, depth, experience, and a wildly entertaining coach. Can't ask for much more.