Optimistic Hawkeyes eager for NCAA tournament bid

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) - Iowa re-energized its weary fan base last season with 18 wins and a spot in the NIT.

The optimistic Hawkeyes are hoping that this will be the year they return to the NCAA tournament. This is the most anticipated season in years at Iowa, which hasn't won 20 games or reached the NCAA tournament since its infamous first-round exit in 2006.

The Hawkeyes have a promising core of emerging players like Devyn Marble and Aaron White that will be augmented by a standout freshman class. It includes a pair of likely starters in center Adam Woodbury and point guard Mike Gesell.

Iowa (18-17, 8-10 Big Ten in 2011-12) opens its season on Nov. 9 against Texas Pan-American.