NIT Round 2: TCU Horned Frogs vs. Iowa Hawkeyes Game Thread

The Frogs take on No. 1 Iowa in just a few minutes, so watch the game (ESPN 2) and come chat about it here. With a win today, TCU would host the regional final against the winner of the Oakland-Richmond game. Getting past Iowa will be no easy task, but the Frogs are 4-2 on the road this season against teams that did not make it to the NCAA Tournament.

If you missed it, here are Chris' three things to watch, from his preview.

Three Things to Watch:

1 - Taking Care of the Ball

Both of these teams were able to advance out of the First Round despite some sloppy play. TCU had 19 turnovers against Fresno State and Iowa had 16 turnovers in their win over South Dakota. On the season, the Frogs average about one fewer turnover per game. However, if one team can create a distinct advantage on defense by forcing turnovers, it could become a major difference in this game.

2 - Free Throw Shooting

Knocking down free throws was another aspect where both teams struggled in their First Round games. TCU shot 55.2% from the line against the Bulldogs and Iowa shot 46.7% at the stripe against South Dakota. Both teams have been similar at the line this season, with TCU shooting 68.1% there and the Hawkeyes shooting 69.5% there. Much like turnovers, free throw shooting could be one of those little things that has a major impact on tonight’s game.

3 - TCU NIT History

The Frogs had been to the NIT six times prior to this season and are now 10-6 all-time in the NIT. They have made it to the Second Round each time, but are 3-3 in those games. TCU has never won a Quarterfinal game in the NIT, so this year’s squad will be hoping to make history by getting to the Semifinals at Madison Square Garden for the 1st time in program history. However, TCU must first take care of business today in order to get to that point.

Prediction:

I expect the Frogs to continue their march to Madison Square Garden with a close victory today. Kenrich Williams will likely have the task of shutting down Peter Jok, but Kenny Hustle is more than capable. I think he will be able to frustrate Jok, but must do so without fouling because the Frogs will need to keep him on the floor. I also expect a solid performance from Alex Robinson, but TCU will likely need one more person to step up. Whether it is Fisher, Vlad, or Bane, if the Frogs can get a balanced attack, they should get this win.

Score Prediction: TCU 72, Iowa 67