Shocking; Iowa Hawkeyes Dominate South Carolina Upstate, But Key Player Suffers Costly Injury

The Iowa Hawkeyes are off to an impressive 6-1 start in the 2024-25 college basketball season, with their only loss coming in a close game against Utah State, 77-69. On Tuesday night, they secured another dominant victory, defeating South Carolina Upstate 110-77.

However, the win came at a cost. Forward Seydou Traore left the game with an injury that has since been diagnosed as a “bad” ankle sprain. At 6-foot-7 and 220 pounds, Traore has been an important contributor off the bench for the Hawkeyes. Losing him, even temporarily, will test Iowa’s depth, which has been a key part of their strategy this season.

In the four games he has played, the sophomore has averaged 21.8 minutes, 8.3 points, and 4.3 rebounds per game. Traore has also shot 41.9% from the field and 25% from three-point range, making him a valuable piece of the rotation.

Head coach Fran McCaffery addressed the injury, emphasizing the team’s depth and readiness to adapt. “I feel comfortable with 13 guys,” McCaffery said. “So I’m comfortable playing Mulvey and Kingsbury. They’re good players. So next man up.”

While the injury is a setback, it comes early in the season, giving Traore time to recover and return to full strength. The team will hope for a swift recovery without setbacks, as Traore’s return will be vital to maintaining their depth and momentum.