Iowa used a 12-4 run in the second half to take the lead for good in a 73-61 win over Central Michigan. Roy Devyn Marble led the Hawks with 18 points and freshman point guard Mike Gessell had another strong outing with 15 points and five assists.
“The first half I was really struggling with my shot and I had a few turnovers, but I knew I had to stay aggressive,” Gessell.
After struggling on offense in the opening half the Hawkeyes took control and connected on 56 percent of their shots in the second half.
Iowa coach Fran McCaffery says it was a combination of youth and experience in a hard-fought physical game “and I couldn’t be prouder of this group.” Despite struggling from the field the Hawks led by three at the break.
McCaffery says he was proud of how they defended, forcing 13 turnovers. He says they needed the defense when they were not playing well offensively, and then in the second half they were more confident.
Aaron White added 14 points as Iowa improved to 2-0. The win spoiled the debut of former Drake coach Keno Davis who is in his first season as the head coach at Central Michigan.