Iowa has a favorable path to the Final Four according to Andy Katz of the Big Ten Network, and he explained why.

For starters, Keegan Murray has given Iowa a first-team Associated Press All-American for the third straight year, as he’s who is fourth nationally in scoring at 23.6 points per game heading into the NCAA Tournament.

“The Hawkeyes I think have a legitimate shot to go from winning the Big Ten Tournament title, to the Final Four,” he said. “Here’s why: they’ve got that 5-seed, and they’re with Kansas, potentially ending up in Chicago at a Sweet 16, Elite 8 scenario. I like them against Richmond. Richmond doesn’t turn the ball over, but I don’t think they have a matchup for Keegan Murray.”

Katz then said neither Providence, nor South Dakota State can compete with Iowa offensively.

“If Iowa gets to Kansas, great atmosphere at the United Center,” he said. “I think Iowa has a matchup problem for Kansas, Ochai Agbaji and Keegan Murray against all those shooters from Iowa. I like the Hawkeyes to get by Kansas, and if they do that, they can beat whoever’s on the bottom part of the bracket and get to the Final Four.”