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Iowa Hawkeyes Host Northern Iowa in 'Soldier Salute' Exhibition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 10:52 GMT by on3.com

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Iowa Hawkeyes Ring in the New Year at the Soldier Salute Exhibition

The Iowa Hawkeyes men’s basketball team is kicking off its 2024 portion of the season with an exhibition game against Northern Iowa on December 30th, affectionately dubbed the "Soldier Salute" at the Xtream Arena in Coralville. This event isn't just a warm-up; it's a significant tradition honoring veterans and providing a valuable opportunity for Coach Steve Alford and his staff to evaluate their team’s progress after a challenging non-conference schedule. The game, scheduled for 6:00 PM CT, is expected to draw a large crowd, reflecting the strong support Iowa basketball enjoys in the state.

A Rocky Start & Needed Adjustments:

The article highlights that Iowa's early season performance has been less than stellar. After starting with considerable expectations fueled by returning starters and some promising recruits, the Hawkeyes have stumbled through their non-conference slate with a 7-4 record as of December 28th. This is significantly below what many anticipated after last year’s NCAA tournament appearance. Losses to Boise State, Nevada, and most recently, Eastern Illinois, have raised concerns about the team's consistency and defensive capabilities. As reported by the Des Moines Register, the team has struggled with turnovers and rebounding, key areas Alford has emphasized for improvement.

The "Soldier Salute" provides a crucial platform to address these issues before Big Ten Conference play begins on January 2nd against Nebraska. Coach Alford stressed in an interview that this game is about more than just getting ready; it's about assessing what’s working and identifying where adjustments are needed. He emphasized the importance of focusing on fundamentals, defensive rotations, and improving overall team chemistry.

Key Players & Emerging Roles:

While established players like senior guard Kris Murray (averaging 21.6 points per game – a testament to his continued dominance) remain vital to Iowa’s success, the article draws attention to the need for other players to step up. Sophomore forward Luke Phillips has seen an increased role recently and is expected to contribute significantly. His performance will be crucial in bolstering the team's rebounding efforts, which have been a consistent weakness. Phillips’ improved play reflects Alford’s desire to see more depth and versatility from his roster.

Freshman guard Drew Mims has also shown flashes of potential, providing energy off the bench. However, he needs to refine his decision-making and reduce turnovers. The Soldier Salute offers him another opportunity to showcase his skills in a game environment. Sophomore forward Harrison Cooper is another player who Alford hopes will contribute more consistently.

Northern Iowa – A Familiar Foe:

Northern Iowa (UNI), coached by Rob Maddux, presents a challenging opponent. UNI has historically been a strong program and provides a solid test for the Hawkeyes. They are currently 7-4 on the season, showcasing their own offensive capabilities and defensive intensity. The game will not only gauge Iowa's progress but also provide UNI with valuable experience against a Big Ten team before they resume their Missouri Valley Conference schedule. UNI’s style of play, often emphasizing ball movement and disciplined defense, should force Iowa to execute its adjustments effectively.

The Soldier Salute Tradition & Community Impact:

Beyond the basketball itself, the "Soldier Salute" holds deep significance for the program and the community. The event is a tribute to military veterans, with ceremonies recognizing their service and sacrifice. This tradition underscores Iowa’s commitment to honoring those who have served the nation, creating a meaningful connection between the team, fans, and local veteran organizations. Several veterans will be recognized during the game, adding an emotional element to the evening. The article highlights that ticket proceeds from the exhibition are often donated to support veteran-related causes, further solidifying the event's positive impact.

Looking Ahead to Big Ten Play:

The Soldier Salute is a vital stepping stone toward a successful Big Ten season. Iowa faces a demanding conference schedule, and the ability to address its current weaknesses will be crucial for competing against top teams like Purdue, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. Alford’s message remains clear: this exhibition isn't about racking up wins; it’s about identifying areas of improvement, building team cohesion, and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. The performance against Northern Iowa will provide valuable insights into whether the Hawkeyes have truly learned from their early-season struggles and are ready to contend in the highly competitive Big Ten landscape. The article concludes by emphasizing that while expectations may have been tempered, the potential for a strong finish remains if the team can capitalize on this opportunity for self-assessment and correction.

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