Iowa History Daily: January 13 - Mark Gannon Commits to Iowa

Iowa History Daily: On January 13, 1978, Mark Gannon of Iowa City Regina committed to play basketball for the Iowa Hawkeyes. A superstar on one of Iowa’s all-time best high school teams, Gannon went on to fly high for the Hawkeyes.

At 6’7” Gannon stood out on the court while helping lead Iowa City to 52 consecutive wins, while posting a 82-2 record. The Regals captured three state championships, and Gannon racked up 1,838 career points. During '79, Gannon's senior season, Regina went undefeated beating 3A state qualifiers (Dubuque Senior and CR Kennedy) during the regular season, as well as the eventual 2A state champs (Cedar Rapids Regis).

During the 1979-1980 season, Gannon contributed to one of Iowa’s most memorable seasons. The team started 7-0 before an injury sidelined Iowa superstar Ronnie Lester. Lute Olson’s team posted 19 regular season wins with contributions from Gannon, Kenny Arnold, Steve Krafcison, Vince Brookins, Kevin Boyle, and Bobby Hanson. With Lester back for the postseason, the Hawks made the 1980 Final Four before an injury again sidelined Lester.

Over a solid four-year career for the Hawkeyes, Gannon averaged 6.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. After his college days, the San Diego Clippers selected Gannon in the 8th round of the NBA Draft. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar