Cyclones dominate from start vs Kansas State 95-61
Iowa State dominates the Big 12 road test as the unstoppable Cyclones defeat Kansas State 95-61. No. 8 Iowa State completely crushed Kansas State 95-61 on the road on Sunday at Bramlage Coliseum in a stunning performance that will reverberate throughout the Big 12. In one of the most comprehensive games of the season, the Cyclones attacked on both ends of the court from the first tip, shooting 55% from the field and an astounding 52% from three while dishing out 28 assists.
Cyclones Dominate From Start: Iowa State Controls Every Corner
Early on, Iowa State kept the Wildcats at bay. The Cyclones stunned the home crowd by taking the lead in the opening minutes and growing it to 32 points before halftime. The Cyclones were able to assist on the majority of their made shots thanks to excellent ball movement, which was typified by sharp passing and continuous off-ball motion. This helped set the stage for a brutal road performance.
Tamin Lipsey, a senior guard, was the mastermind behind a high-tempo attack and flirted with a double-double. Joshua Jefferson, a forward, anchored the Cyclones’ dominance in both paint and perimeter with his forceful inside rebounds and timely buckets, while Lipsey’s vision set up teammates throughout the entire evening. Kansas State was forced to scramble due to Jefferson’s presence on both ends.
Iowa State’s defense prevented Kansas State from gaining momentum by forcing turnovers, contesting shots, and holding the Wildcats to a low shooting percentage. Every defense rotation created a transition opportunity, which the Cyclones almost effortlessly converted into points.
Statement Essentials: Stars & Team
Iowa State 95, Kansas State 61 in the end
Team shooting: 28 assists, 55% FG, and 52% 3PT
Joshua Jefferson: The senior was unrelenting on both ends, leading with 19 points and 8 rebounds.
With 16 points and 9 assists, Tamin Lipsey came just short of having an incredible night.
This was Iowa State’s most comprehensive performance in weeks, combining a swinging offense with a smothering defense to prevent Kansas State from ever gaining a foothold.
Coach Otzelberger Ties Program Great
With this win, which is head coach T.J. Otzelberger’s 115th at Iowa State, he ties Fred Hoiberg for fourth place in the school’s history. This game demonstrated the disciplined ball movement and versatile scoring that Otzelberger’s teams are known for. After the game, Otzelberger said, “We can beat anyone when we stick to who we are move the ball, play tough defense.” This was a complete team victory.
What It Means for the Cyclones
Iowa State continues to advance in conference play with this road victory. After early Big 12 tests, the Cyclones, who are currently 20-2 on the season, have begun to improve. This kind of performance, particularly away from Hilton Coliseum, sends a message to the rest of the league that Iowa State is one of the most formidable teams in college basketball when it is playing at its peak.
