The Iowa State University women’s basketball team secured an impressive 96-88 victory over Arizona State University in the Big 12 Championship, showcasing a stellar performance marked by strong free throws and early scoring. This thrilling win has propelled the Cyclones into the quarterfinals of the tournament, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with the No. 2-seeded Baylor Bears. On the flip side, the Sun Devils concluded their season with a 10-22 record, falling short in a hard-fought battle against a formidable opponent.
Ringing in the first half with exceptional shooting accuracy, Iowa State displayed prowess with a nearly 55% field goal percentage and a 46% success rate from beyond the arc. By the halftime whistle, the Cyclones had established an 11-point lead, led by the stellar performances of sophomore forward Addy Brown, who tallied 24 points, and fifth-year senior guard Emily Ryan, who dished out eight assists. The early offensive onslaught set the stage for a riveting second half where Iowa State continued to shine.
In the second half, Arizona State matched the Cyclones shot for shot, even outscoring them by three points. However, Iowa State maintained its composure, with Addy Brown delivering a standout performance and the team showcasing remarkable accuracy from the free-throw line, ultimately clinching an eight-point victory. The resilient spirit and tenacity displayed by the Cyclones underscored their determination to emerge victorious in a fiercely contested match.
Dominant Starts and Offensive Brilliance
The game kicked off with Iowa State making a resounding statement in the first quarter, despite a shaky start with missed shots. Addy Brown and junior guard/forward Sydney Harris quickly found their rhythm, sinking a flurry of three-pointers to ignite the offense. Harris’s dynamic play provided a much-needed spark, earning praise from Brown for her instrumental role in propelling the team forward. The seamless synergy between the two players exemplified the cohesive teamwork and shared camaraderie that defined the Cyclones’ performance on the court.
As the first half drew to a close, Iowa State held a commanding 28-17 lead, a lead that was established early on and fervently defended throughout the period. The team’s impressive offensive display in the first half laid a solid foundation for their continued success in the subsequent quarters, showcasing a blend of skill, strategy, and unwavering determination. The seamless transition into the second half mirrored the team’s consistent focus and offensive prowess, with players stepping up to deliver pivotal contributions at critical junctures.
Precision and Perseverance: Mastering Ball Control and Free Throws
Throughout the season, Iowa State grappled with turnovers and offensive fouls, highlighting areas for improvement. However, in the face of formidable opponents, the Cyclones demonstrated a remarkable ability to limit mistakes and turnovers, a key factor in their triumph over Arizona State. Head coach Bill Fennelly lauded the team’s disciplined approach and emphasized the importance of ball control in securing victory, underscoring the significance of error-free execution in high-stakes matchups.
Drawing fouls and converting free throws emerged as a decisive factor in Iowa State’s triumph, with Arizona State’s aggressive defense leading to a staggering 30 personal fouls. The Cyclones capitalized on this opportunity, amassing 40 free throw attempts and showcasing an impressive 82.5% accuracy rate. Coach Fennelly commended the team’s aggressive playstyle and strategic approach, emphasizing the pivotal role of free throws in shaping the outcome of the game. Addy Brown and Audi Crooks emerged as standout performers, delivering clutch performances from the free-throw line and making a significant impact on the team’s overall success.
Looking ahead to the quarterfinal matchup against the Baylor Bears, the Cyclones are poised to bring their A-game and build on their recent victory. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between two formidable teams, with Iowa State’s resolute determination and unwavering focus poised to make a lasting impact on the tournament. As the team gears up for the next challenge, their collective spirit and indomitable will to succeed serve as a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence on and off the court.
