The Iowa Hawkeyes defeated Cal Poly 85-59 Sunday afternoon at Carver-Hawkeye Arena but lost a key big man in the process. Jack Nunge is out for the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

Nunge (#2), a 6-foot 11-inch 245-pound sophomore who redshirted last season, started the season slowly with just two points in Iowa's first two games. However, he combined for 25 points and 17 rebounds in his next two. Nunge had three points and five rebounds in twelve minutes Sunday before going down while driving to the hoop.

The injury announcement came from Iowa head coach Fran McCaffery Monday morning:

All of us feel for Jack. This is an unfortunate setback for a young man who spent countless hours in the gym and weight room last year preparing for this season. Jack has the full support of his teammates and coaches during his recovery.

Nunge's injury could mean even more time on the court of Luka Garza, who is off to a fantastic start. The 6-foot 11-inch junior is averaging 22 points and 10 rebounds in Iowa's (4-1) first five games.

Iowa's next contest is Thanksgiving night in Las Vegas, against Texas Tech. The game tips off at 7 pm on FS1.

[Iowa Sports Information Department]

Iowa v Iowa State
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