Iowa Avoids Losing Another Transfer With Scholarship Offer
Jack Nunge has amicably transferred to Xavier to be closer to his family. C.J. Fredrick is also transferring, but he hasn't announced his destination yet. Iowa legend Luka Garza is graduating, getting his number retired, and is likely off to the NBA, taking his boatload of player of the year awards with him. Finally, Joe Weiskamp is trying his hand at the pros.
The latter has the opening to return, but many experts are convinced we've seen the last of Weiskamp in an Iowa uniform. The exodus of these major pieces very quickly appeared to deplete what was a very successful and fun to watch Iowa team who made a run to the second round in the NCAA tournament in March. On the other hand, as they leave, there's room for other players to step up. Jordan Bohannon gave fans welcome news this week announcing he intends to return for a 6th year of eligibility after a change to an NCAA rule made it possible.
According to the Cedar Rapids Gazette, a former walk-on guard who also appeared to be on the way out just earned a huge vote of confidence and another year of playing time from coach Fran McCaffery and the team, as Austin Ash has been placed on scholarship. The Gazette says Ash played in nine games in the 2020-21 season, averaging 1.7 points per game. Ash had entered the NCAA transfer portal seeking a new team to play for, but talked about the accolade in a statement, saying:
I'm really excited. Had taken a couple visits and really thought that I had played my last game in a Hawkeye uniform after that Oregon game. Very grateful for at least one more year here.
We as fans are very excited (and relieved) to have him back as well.