DuffMan
Well-Known Member
Realistically the NIT is out for this year. Unless we finish 4-1 the last five games (or 3-2 and make it to the B10 tourney finals) it’s just not going to happen. That said….
Provided we finish within a game or two of .500 (for the record I think we finish the regular season at 15-16 (7-11)) I think we are a lock for a post season tournament. As everyone but Ryno knows all teams are eligible for the CBI provided they make a “bid†to host a game. I think Iowa does that this year, for a couple of reasons.
Growth:
First of all there has been some real clear momentum for the team this year. I think Barta realizes that he needs to help let that grow. It would also be extremely valuable to the team and it’s growth. Any kind of post season tournament will help them down the road.
Fans:
Don’t get me wrong, we haven’t seen the fan support and Carver environment of the 80’s and 90’s, but things are improving there. I think Barta needs to thank the fans that have come back by giving them additional opportunities to see the team play.
Gatens Factor:
Honestly this one should probably be first, and it’s probably enough all by itself. Matt Gatens is a home town Hawk. He’s spend 4 mostly miserable years here. I think Iowa owes it to Matt to give him the chance to experience the post season. Also don’t underestimate the power of Mike Gatens here. He’s got some influence inside the program, and he’s in with much of the boy’s club that supports Iowa basketball. If that club want’s Iowa to bid on a CBI game, it WILL happen.
We Can Afford It:
So the CBI allows teams to bid to host games. The ideal situation would see Iowa make up enough money on the gate and concessions to cover the cost. But for Iowa it’s not required. The athletic department is on solid footing, it could afford to take a moderate loss on this. I think they probably sell tickets for $5, get 4-5000 paid, and call it good. Hell, make the tickets general admission (except for the high donor club seats courtside) and pack it in close, make it a good environment.
Provided we finish within a game or two of .500 (for the record I think we finish the regular season at 15-16 (7-11)) I think we are a lock for a post season tournament. As everyone but Ryno knows all teams are eligible for the CBI provided they make a “bid†to host a game. I think Iowa does that this year, for a couple of reasons.
Growth:
First of all there has been some real clear momentum for the team this year. I think Barta realizes that he needs to help let that grow. It would also be extremely valuable to the team and it’s growth. Any kind of post season tournament will help them down the road.
Fans:
Don’t get me wrong, we haven’t seen the fan support and Carver environment of the 80’s and 90’s, but things are improving there. I think Barta needs to thank the fans that have come back by giving them additional opportunities to see the team play.
Gatens Factor:
Honestly this one should probably be first, and it’s probably enough all by itself. Matt Gatens is a home town Hawk. He’s spend 4 mostly miserable years here. I think Iowa owes it to Matt to give him the chance to experience the post season. Also don’t underestimate the power of Mike Gatens here. He’s got some influence inside the program, and he’s in with much of the boy’s club that supports Iowa basketball. If that club want’s Iowa to bid on a CBI game, it WILL happen.
We Can Afford It:
So the CBI allows teams to bid to host games. The ideal situation would see Iowa make up enough money on the gate and concessions to cover the cost. But for Iowa it’s not required. The athletic department is on solid footing, it could afford to take a moderate loss on this. I think they probably sell tickets for $5, get 4-5000 paid, and call it good. Hell, make the tickets general admission (except for the high donor club seats courtside) and pack it in close, make it a good environment.
