Iowa basketball coach Steve Alford likes the potential of his team even though it lacks experience. The Hawkeyes lost four starters off last years team that won the Big Ten Tournament title and finished with 25 wins, the second most in school history. Among the few players with experience are guards Adam Haluska and Mike Henderson along with center Seth Gorley.

Alford says there are only three players that have lettered more than twice. Last year Alford says he knew what he had going in, but he says this year will be different as they don’t know all the parts yet. The season ended on a sour note when the Hawkeyes were stunned by Northwestern State of Louisiana in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.

Alford says that was heartbreaking because it was a special year with a special team. Alford says after viewing the tape, the team last year was special defensively. Alford says this team is more athletic and will need to play a different way. He says they lack a post threat or a point guard with experience.

Alford says though he’s excited about getting into the season with this team to see how it develops.
The Hawks open the season November 13th against the Citadel.