In a thrilling rematch at Hilton Coliseum, the No. 9 Iowa State Cyclones dominated the No. 22 Arizona Wildcats with a final score of 84-67. This victory was fueled by a strong first half performance from behind the arc and a stellar defensive effort that left the Wildcats struggling to keep up. The game was a triumphant return for the Cyclones, who were cheered on by former players Tyrese Haliburton and Georges Niang. Haliburton, fresh off a gold medal win at the Paris Olympics, was honored during halftime, while Niang showed his support for his alma mater and friends on the team.
The win brought the Cyclones’ record to 12-6 in the Big 12 and 22-7 overall, setting the stage for an exciting end to the regular season with two games left to play.
Early Offensive Dominance
The Cyclones wasted no time asserting their dominance on the court, with senior forward Brandton Chatfield making his presence known with a powerful slam dunk early in the game. The team’s initial points came from inside plays and free throws, setting the tone for a strong offensive performance.
As the game progressed, Iowa State’s offense transitioned seamlessly from inside to outside, with senior guard Keshon Gilbert sinking the team’s first 3-pointer. The Cyclones went on an impressive shooting spree, making eight consecutive baskets, seven of which were 3-pointers. Sophomore forward Milan Momcilovic was a standout player, contributing four of those crucial 3-pointers. The team ended the first half with a remarkable 9-for-13 shooting from beyond the arc, setting a new season-high 3-point percentage of 52.4%.
Coach T.J. Otzelberger praised his players for their ball movement and sharpshooting, emphasizing the importance of keeping the offense dynamic and unpredictable. The Cyclones’ success from deep was a team effort, with multiple players, including Gilbert, Lipsey, Jones, and Heise, contributing to the impressive shooting performance.
Bench Strength and Defensive Prowess
With Gilbert back in the lineup, Iowa State’s bench provided a significant boost to the team’s performance. Players like Jones, Chatfield, and Heise showcased their offensive skills, combining for 34 points and contributing to the team’s rebounding efforts. Chatfield’s physicality and aggressive play stood out, particularly in his rebounding efforts, securing critical possessions for the Cyclones.
Heise continued to shine as an offensive weapon, scoring 12 points and showcasing his shooting prowess from both inside and outside the arc. Jones, known as the ‘sixth starter’, made a significant impact in the second half, scoring all 12 of his points when his team needed them most. Despite facing defensive pressure, Jones delivered key plays and demonstrated his ability to knock down shots when it mattered most.
While turnovers remained a concern for the Cyclones, with 16 in the game, their tough defense limited Arizona’s scoring opportunities. Holding the Wildcats to a mere 33.3% shooting from the field and 18.2% from 3-point range, Iowa State’s defensive intensity was a crucial factor in securing the win. Momcilovic’s stellar defensive performance, matched by his offensive contributions, exemplified the team’s commitment to both ends of the court.
As the Cyclones prepare for the final stretch of the regular season, their balanced play on offense and tenacious defense will be key to maintaining their momentum and securing victories in the upcoming games. With a talented roster and a resilient spirit, Iowa State is poised for success as they continue their pursuit of excellence on the basketball court.
