The Iowa Hawkeyes lost a lot of experience in the frontcourt, like a lot. It is a true reset for the program in regards to the big men, with zero returning contributors from last season.
Kris Murray is, of course, the massive loss over the offseason. After flirting with the NBA draft the year prior, the forward stuck around one more year in Iowa City where he would develop into a star. Kris was a first-team All-Big Ten member before being drafted 23rd overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2023 NBA draft.
Murray is not the only player in need of replacement, though. Center Filip Rebraca took a massive step forward in his super senior season for the Hawkeyes. The North Dakota transfer was a key cog in Fran McCaffery’s rotation and signed his first professional contract earlier in August. Iowa will also have to replace starting forward Connor McCaffery as well.
As you can see, there is a lot to replace this season for the Hawkeyes. The only potential returning member of the frontcourt was Josh Ogundele, but he transferred to Middle Tennessee State. The Hawkeyes hit the portal themselves in search of a key veteran piece. It appears they have found just that in Ben Krikke.
The forward was a breakout star for Valparaiso this past season, leading the Missouri Valley Conference in scoring. Now in his final year of collegiate play, Krikke looks to make an impact on a larger stage for the Hawkeyes. Here is a look at Ben Krikke.