I think that Much, Casimir, McGill, Crawford, and Zach Lewis can run with our guards. TK Egodi is also a interesting matchup against Marv, very similar skill sets and frames. Iona has a short bench, especially against supreme talent, however so do we. They are undersized, so are we.
They have 5 players averaging double figures in ppg and feature a roster that is a good mix of under and upperclassmen. These kids won't be intimidated, most of them have NCAA Tourney experience. Add in the local psyche to the game alongside how much Iona will come out wanting to upset us and I think that this could be a trap game.
Our players need to be keenly aware of these matchups and impose their will early or this can be a dangerous matchup quickly, LIUBK and Fordham losses in recent years come to mind. Iona has plenty of capable guards. Avoiding early foul trouble will be key, however much like the past 2-3X opponents in the NCAA Tourney under Cluess, its a bad matchup for him. Both teams like to push the ball and break out into transition. They both feast on turnovers. I think that our stars will ultimately outshine theirs. Close game nonetheless:
Gaels 77
Johnnies 88