Jarrod Uthoff: (6'9" forward), the 2011 Iowa Mr. Basketball and former Hawkeye, is back in the USA to play for Team USA in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.
Uthoff's journey: From Wisconsin (transfer) → Iowa (star) → NBA cups with Dallas, Memphis, Washington → G League stops → Japan → Italy's Pallacanestro Trieste (since 2024).
Last season with Trieste: Averaged **7.8 points per game** on **51.3% FG** and **37.8% from three-point range**.
At Iowa, Uthoff recorded 66 double-digit scoring games and ranked No. 4 all-time in program history in blocked shots (177).
Why this matters: Uthoff's versatility as an inside-out scorer and elite shot-blocker makes him a valuable fit for Team USA's system. His journey from college star to international journeyman to national team member is a testament to perseverance and adaptability in professional basketball.
Team USA faces the Dominican Republic (July 3, 7 p.m. CT) and Mexico (July 6, 9 p.m. CT) — both games on DAZN.
Jarrod Uthoff's basketball career has been anything but conventional. After being named 2011 Iowa Mr. Basketball, he initially committed to Wisconsin but saw limited playing time over two seasons. Seeking opportunity, he transferred to the University of Iowa in 2013 under head coach Fran McCaffery, where he developed into one of the program's most versatile forwards.
Standing 6-foot-9, Uthoff was a matchup nightmare — capable of scoring inside and out while providing elite rim protection. His 177 career blocked shots rank fourth all-time in Hawkeyes history, and he logged 66 games scoring in double figures.
After college, Uthoff's professional path took him across North America and overseas:
NBA: Brief stints with the Dallas Mavericks (2017), Memphis Grizzlies (2020), and Washington Wizards (2020)
G League: Raptors 905, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Texas Legends, Memphis Hustle, Erie Bayhawks
Japan: Three seasons refining his game abroad
Italy: Since 2024, he has found a home with **Pallacanestro Trieste**, averaging 7.8 PPG on efficient shooting
The Uthoff selection highlights how USA Basketball is tapping into experienced professionals — not just NBA stars — to build depth for World Cup qualifying. His ability to stretch the floor (37.8% from three) and protect the rim gives the coaching staff flexibility in lineups.
Who is Jarrod Uthoff?
Jarrod Uthoff is a 6'9" forward who played college basketball at Iowa (after transferring from Wisconsin). He has played in the NBA, G League, Japan, and Italy, and is now representing Team USA in the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.
When and where does Team USA play next?
Team USA faces the Dominican Republic on July 3, 2026, in Santo Domingo (7 p.m. CT), followed by a game against Mexico on July 6, 2026 (9 p.m. CT). Both games are televised on DAZN.
How did Uthoff perform last season?
Playing for Pallacanestro Trieste in Italy, Uthoff averaged 7.8 points per game on 51.3% shooting from the field and 37.8% from three-point range.
What is Uthoff's connection to Iowa?
Uthoff was the 2011 Iowa Mr. Basketball, played for the Iowa Hawkeyes from 2013-2016, and ranks No. 4 all-time in program history in blocked shots (177).
For Iowa fans: This is a proud moment — a former Hawkeye is representing the nation on the international stage. Uthoff's story shows that a non-traditional path can still lead to national team honors.
For basketball enthusiasts: Watch the games on DAZN to see a versatile forward who has sharpened his skills across multiple leagues and continents.
For aspiring players: Uthoff's journey underscores the value of perseverance. Despite not sticking in the NBA long-term, he continued to develop abroad and earned a spot on Team USA.
How to watch: Both qualifying games are available on DAZN. Mark your calendar for July 3 (vs. Dominican Republic) and July 6 (vs. Mexico).
Jarrod Uthoff's selection to Team USA proves that hard work and perseverance can lead to unexpected opportunities. Do you think journeyman players like Uthoff bring a different kind of value to national teams compared to NBA stars? Let us know your thoughts below!
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