The Iowa Hawkeyes are set to travel to Ohio on November 20 for a non‑conference showdown against Xavier, marking the second meeting of a home‑and‑home series that began with a convincing 81‑62 victory for Iowa last season.
A rivalry rekindled
Iowa’s dominant performance in the earlier encounter was anchored by Bennett Stirtz, who poured in 21 points, while supporting cast members Kael Combs, Cam Manyawu and Tate Sage added 11, 9 and 8 points respectively.
Xavier’s roster reshaped
Under first‑year coach Richard Pitino, Xavier is rebuilding after a 15‑18 season that left them tied for last in the Big East. The Musketeers welcome back junior forward Jovan Milićević, who averaged 12.4 points per game, and Gabriel Pozzato, the 2024‑25 Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Year, who returns from injury. The team also added seven transfers, among them Chance Westry, Mike Nwoko, Tru Washington and Rubén Dominguez, each bringing proven scoring ability from their previous programs.
Iowa’s offensive arsenal
Iowa’s attack remains potent, with Stirtz leading the way, but the Hawkeyes also rely on the scoring punch of Combs, Manyawu and Sage. The depth of talent on both sides promises a fast‑paced contest that could swing on a few key moments.
Fans can expect a clash of styles as the Hawkeyes’ balanced offense meets Xavier’s revamped lineup, setting the stage for an early‑season highlight.