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Iowa Hawkeyes Face First Big Test Against No. 7 Baylor Bears

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, November 19th 2025 at 17:43 GMT by The Gazette

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Iowa Faces Its First Big Test: The Hawkeyes Take on No. 7 Baylor

The 2024‑25 Iowa men’s basketball team is set to square off against a formidable opponent on Thursday night, as the Hawkeyes prepare for the first major test of their season in a game against the No. 7‑ranked Baylor Bears. The match, scheduled for 7 p.m. on the campus of the University of Iowa in Iowa City, promises a clash of contrasting styles, a deep bench, and a chance for the Hawkeyes to prove they belong among the nation’s elite.

A Season of Growth and Opportunity

The Iowa roster has seen significant development over the past year, a transformation that has propelled the Hawkeyes from a middling Big Ten standing to a nationally recognized contender. Coach Fran McCaffrey has praised the team’s resilience, noting that the squad has improved defensively and in its offensive execution. The Hawkeyes finished the regular season with a 25‑8 overall record and a 13‑5 mark in conference play, earning a berth in the NCAA tournament and a seed that pits them against a top‑ten team in the first round.

The article highlights that the Hawkeyes’ run to the tournament has been defined by a strong front‑court presence. Senior forward Jared Britt has emerged as a versatile inside scorer, averaging 14 points and 9 rebounds per game. The team’s guard rotation, anchored by sophomore point guard James Benton, has also been a bright spot, with Benton’s playmaking and perimeter shooting providing a counterbalance to the interior dominance.

Baylor: A Heavy‑Hitters Powerhouse

Baylor, on the other hand, enters the game as a dominant force. The Bears are ranked No. 7 in the AP Poll and boast an impressive 28‑4 record, having swept the regular‑season conference slate against a formidable Big 12 schedule. Baylor’s star, senior forward Mason Clark, has been a double‑double machine, averaging 18 points and 12 rebounds. Their guard play, spearheaded by junior point guard Jordan Reed, brings a mix of sharp shooting and defensive tenacity that has often been the key to the Bears’ success.

The article notes that Baylor’s coaching staff, led by Head Coach Matt Gold, has crafted a system that emphasizes high‑tempo offense coupled with a stifling full‑court press. Their ability to stretch the floor with three‑point shooting and create inside opportunities will be a significant test for the Iowa defense.

Key Matchups and Strategic Predictions

Inside vs. Inside

One of the primary battles will be between Iowa’s Jared Britt and Baylor’s Mason Clark. Britt’s ability to draw double teams and finish around the rim could be a major factor in controlling the paint. Meanwhile, Clark’s shot‑blocking prowess and rebounding command could swing the game in Baylor’s favor. Coach McCaffrey has emphasized that the Hawkeyes must stay disciplined, limiting fouls and forcing Baylor into contested shots.

Guard Play

James Benton’s performance will also be critical. Known for his precise ball handling and decision‑making, Benton will be expected to run Iowa’s offense efficiently, especially in transition. Baylor’s guard duo, led by Reed, will likely apply a relentless defensive pressure, trying to disrupt Benton’s rhythm. The article suggests that a key to Iowa’s success will be capitalizing on any defensive lapses by the Bears, particularly in the third quarter when fatigue often sets in.

Pace and Transition

Iowa’s coach has also mentioned a strategy to keep the game in the first half, where the Hawkeyes’ offensive tempo is strongest. By maintaining a higher pace, the Hawkeyes can reduce the time Baylor has to set up its defense, thereby limiting the Bears’ ability to hit their preferred high‑tempo offense.

Fan Expectations and Cultural Context

The article reflects the excitement among Hawkeye fans, many of whom have long awaited a chance to see the team compete against a top‑ten opponent in the NCAA tournament. The atmosphere in Iowa City is described as electric, with a packed Gelish Field House and a fan base that is both passionate and supportive.

The piece also references past encounters, noting that the last time Iowa faced Baylor in the NCAA tournament, it was a tight contest that the Hawkeyes lost by a single point. This recent history adds an emotional dimension to the upcoming game, giving Iowa a tangible goal to motivate the players and fans alike.

Final Thoughts

In summation, the Hawkeyes’ first major test of the season lies ahead in a Thursday night showdown against the No. 7‑ranked Baylor Bears. Iowa’s recent ascent in the Big Ten and their national tournament entry sets the stage for a high‑stakes clash, while Baylor’s dominant performance and deep roster bring a formidable challenge. As the two teams prepare to face off, the game promises to be a showcase of strategic ingenuity, athletic prowess, and the raw passion that defines college basketball at its finest.

Whether Iowa can rise to the occasion and secure a victory that would propel them further into the tournament remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the Hawkeyes have earned the opportunity to prove themselves against one of the nation’s best, and the forthcoming contest is poised to be a thrilling chapter in the 2024‑25 season narrative.