Alex Roux, BTN.com editor, November 17, 2016

Iowa dropped its Gavitt Games matchup with Seton Hall Thursday, but a Hawkeye newcomer provided a huge reason for optimism.

[btn-post-package-v2]

Freshman Tyler Cook scored 24 points on 9-of-15 shooting in just his third career game in Iowa's 91-83 home loss to the Pirates. The 6-foot-9, 240 pound forward out of St. Louis' Chaminade Prep electrified the Carver-Hawkeye crowd all game, showing off a versatile skill set both down low and on the perimeter.

The play of the night came in the second half, when Cook caught the ball at the top of the key, spun off the dribble and dropped a filthy one-handed jam in traffic.

Not many freshmen – or any college player – can unleash a move like that. Cook looks to be a solid second option offensively for an Iowa squad that got a lot younger after graduating four seniors last season.

While senior Peter Jok didn't disappoint as he poured in 30 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in a losing effort, Cook offered a clear glimpse of the Hawkeyes' future.