March seems so far away, but our women’s college basketball crystal ball is becoming less cloudy as we hit the midpoint of the season.
Our experts dove into some predictions Wednesday, and we’re back to imagine what this season’s NCAA Tournament will look like. From Final Four picks to betting advice, we’ve got plenty to discuss.
GO DEEPER
Who has what it takes to beat South Carolina? Anyone? Our women’s college hoops panel debates
1. Is Iowa a Final Four team?
Lyndsey D’Arcangelo: Not unless its supporting cast steps up. Clark (26.8 ppg) is such a big part of Iowa’s offense that if she struggles or teams take her out of the equation, the Hawkeyes flounder. She has a usage rate of almost 40 percent when she’s on the floor and the highest offensive win shares on the team by far. Monika Czinano (17.6 ppg) is a solid second option, and McKenna Warnock (12.2 ppg) is an asset, but Iowa needs more balanced scoring and bench help to have a legitimate shot.
Chantel Jennings: ESPN wishes it were (for the #CaitlinFactor) … but sadly, no.
Ben Pickman: Could they go on a deep run? Yes. Would I pick them to? No. Iowa’s offense remains potent, but unless its defense improves, it’s hard to think that they will be in Dallas come late March.
Sabreena Merchant: Iowa returned the…
