The Steve Alford era at the University of Iowa began with a bang Thursday night. The Hawkeyes jumped out to a 15-point halftime lead then survived second half foul trouble to post a shocking 70-68 victory over top ranked and defending national champion U-Conn in the Coaches versus Cancer Classic in New York City.Alford says the hard work of the players in the pre-season paid off.Jacob Jaacks (jakes) provided a lift with a career high 20-points.Senior guard Ryan Luehrsmann (loors-man) hit a couple of big baskets late after U-Conn had taken a brief two point lead.Luehrsmann says he was glad he got a chance to contribute at the end.