Hawkeyes Clipped by Hoosiers in a Close Contest at Assembly Hall
In a closely contested battle at Assembly Hall, the Iowa Hawkeyes fell short against the Indiana Hoosiers with a final score of 74-68. The Hawkeyes now stand with an overall record of 17-5, while the Hoosiers improved to 15-7. Despite a strong second half where Iowa outscored Indiana by five points, it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit established in the first half.
The Hawkeyes showcased their quick transition game, accumulating 19 fast break points and demonstrating their ability to convert defense into offense. However, they struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on just six of their 22 three-point attempts for a modest 27 percent shooting rate. Inside the paint was no different; despite scoring 24 points there, they were limited to just 40 percent shooting on two-point field goals.
Iowa's defensive efforts were highlighted by nine steals and three blocks but were overshadowed by Indiana's more dominant presence inside which resulted in eight blocks for the home team. The rebounding battle also went in favor of the Hoosiers who grabbed a total of 45 rebounds compared to Iowa's 32.
A bright spot for Iowa was their free throw accuracy as they made good on an impressive 84 percent from the line (16 out of 19). Additionally, ball security seemed to be a priority for them as evidenced by committing only three turnovers throughout the game and maintaining an assist-to-turnover ratio of over three.
Despite these efforts, it was not enough against an Indiana team that shot better from both two-point range (51 percent) and three-point range (36 percent). The Hoosiers also capitalized on second-chance opportunities with fifteen second-chance points thanks largely to ten offensive rebounds.
Looking ahead after this tough loss on foreign hardwoods, fans can catch their next chance at victory when Iowa hosts Ohio State Buckeyes at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This upcoming matchup is scheduled for February 2nd at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City with tip-off set for seven o'clock PM Eastern Time. Fans can tune into Fox Sports one channel two hundred nineteen nationally to follow all live-action as it unfolds.