2010 Preview: Iowa

After this week's bold predictions, let's delve a little deeper into what the conference could look like next year. The next couple of weeks, I'll count down how I think the conference will turn out in 2010, and we'll start with the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Key Returnees: G/F Matt Gatens, G Devan Bawinkel, G Anthony Tucker, F Jarryd Cole
Key Departures: G Jake Kelly, G Jeff Peterson, F Cyrus Tate
Recruits: G/F Eric May (Dubuque, IA), F/C Brennan Cougill (Sioux City, IA), G Cully Payne (Schaumburg, IL), JUCO F Devon Archie (Vincennes, IN)
Biggest Need: Point guard
2010 Outlook: The Hawkeyes have had a roller coaster-like ride in Todd Lickliter's two seasons at the helm, in which they've gone 28-36. They've shown flashes of improvement (and even brilliance) at times, but it's obvious that his system is still being implemented.

Despite the offseason departures of four players, including starters Jake Kelly and Jeff Peterson, Iowa has a pretty good core intact. Matt Gatens had a phenomenal freshman season and will likely be the go-to guy next year. Devan Bawinkel proved to be one of the conference's best three-point threats, as did his teammate, freshman Anthony Tucker, when he was on the floor.

However, Iowa needs to find a point guard to disseminate the offense. Kelly was annoited the point guard of the future after filling in for Peterson late this season, but with both of them gone, a gaping hole was left with no virtual replacement. Hawkeye fans think they've found the answer in Cully Payne, a one-time DePaul and Alabama commitment, but more depth is needed. The only true point guard on the team is walk-on John Lickliter, and he has no collegiate experience after redshirting last year. Every team needs a heady point guard to be successful, but for this system, it's essential. Right now, point guard is a big question mark heading into the offseason.

Iowa will also need to develop some size. The Hawkeyes were out-rebounded and out-muscled too many times last season, especially in Big Ten games because they simply did not have enough size. Jarryd Cole is a tank down low, but his size (6'6") limits his effectiveness. One player to watch here is sophomore-to-be Aaron Fuller (right), who many believe is poised to have a breakout season. He's a tweener-type forward at 6'6", but he can step out and shoot or take it in off the dribble. With one season to work with under his belt, expect Fuller to have a much bigger role in 2010.