And Down the Stretch they Come...
Scott Reed
Tuesday July 11, 2000
Considering that the teams that make up Iowa’s 8 wins have a combined 32 wins to 41 losses, it lends a different meaning to the phrase “Division Champs.” The two games left to play will be the real test to see if Iowa “deserves” that distinction. Albany, the defending Arena Champions, and Arizona, also no stranger to championships, will be coming to the Barn to set up the seeding for the playoffs. Will a two game split be enough to satisfy the critics or will it take a sweep to make a statement that Iowa is for real?
 Shea Showers` play has provided Iowa with improved defense this season. Image courtesy of Dave Carlson |
So what should Iowa fans expect during this post-season? They will likely achieve similar results. Win a playoff game or two then hang on. Of course, some of the other playoff teams are faltering as well. Orlando, Tampa Bay, Albany, and even San Jose look like they are missing a step. But as we all know, playoff time brings out the best performances, and it only takes a chaotic bounce of the ball to determine a team’s fate.
Will Iowa perform well in the playoffs? There is no reason to doubt it. Will they represent the division as true champions? They have done so in the past. But as long as San Jose and Albany keep their teams healthy and home field advantage, it could be a difficult, if not impossible, drive to the finish.
Scott Reed was a writer for ArenaFan Online from 2000 to 2002.
