This post was written by Hatchet reporter Matt Cullen.
What: Women’s basketball (3-1) vs. Iowa (4-0)
Where: Cedar Park Center, Cedar Park, Texas
When: Friday, Nov. 27 at 2:30 p.m. EST
After a 1-1 trip to California, the Colonials continue their road-trip in the home state of senior guards Aaliyah Brown and Alexis Chandler.
The second game of the trip is against No. 25 Iowa. This will be a tough matchup for both teams. With both sides so close in ranking, neither team winning will be considered a true upset.
The Colonials have not matched up with the Hawkeyes since 2000.
The Case for the Colonials: Senior forward Jonquel Jones has shown why she is so highly regarded by having some great individual performances in the past few games. The Colonials have been successful with the ball in her hands. So far this season, Jones has proven that she is also a threat from behind the arc, making her a tough matchup for any team.
Although the frontcourt is usually highlighted for the Colonials, the Hawkeyes are not short of size on their roster. This game may be an opportunity for the GW guards to step up and lead for the Colonials.
Junior guard Shannon Cranshaw and graduate student guard Lauren Chase will look to take advantage by playing an up-tempo game.
The Case for the Hawkeyes: The Hawkeyes are undefeated this year and are streaking going into the tournament. They have yet to be truly tested but do not expect them to be intimidated by any team.
Last year the 26-8 Hawkeyes made it all the way to the 3rd round of the NCAA tournament before being eliminated by No. 5 Baylor.
They are expecting to make it back to the tournament and GW is their first ranked game that can establish their talent.
Junior guard Ally Disterhoft leads Iowa with team highs 16.8 points and 4.3 assists per game. They also have some height and skill down low from freshman forward Megan Gustafson.
Bottom line: If the Colonials are able to keep the game going fast and rebound like they have been, they should have the upper hand. But, do not be surprised if the improved Iowa defense and their backcourt leads the Hawkeyes to the win.
