Iowa State University Women’s Basketball Team Falls to Baylor: A Game Analysis and Recap
In a heart-wrenching defeat, the Iowa State University women’s basketball team faced a tough battle against Baylor, resulting in a 67-52 loss that ended their four-game winning streak. The game, held at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa on Saturday, saw the Cyclones struggling offensively against Baylor’s formidable defense, ultimately dropping their record to 19-10 with only two games left before the Big 12 tournament. On the other hand, the Bears extended their winning streak to eight games, solidifying their position near the top of the conference.
The first half of the game showcased a slow start for the Cyclones, who struggled to find their rhythm, shooting a mere 25% from the field and a dismal 16% from beyond the arc. As the first half came to a close, Iowa State found themselves trailing by 10 points, with redshirt sophomore forward Alisa Williams leading the scoring with eight points.
The second half did not bring much relief for the Cyclones, as their offense continued to falter. Although sophomore center Audi Crooks managed to score 12 of her 14 points in the second half, the team as a whole struggled to convert their shots, shooting a mere 5-for-17. The turnovers proved to be a significant setback for Iowa State, with the team committing a total of 21 turnovers, reflecting the Bears’ aggressive defensive strategy.
Turnovers Plague Iowa State
Despite their preparation for Baylor’s intense defense, the Cyclones found it challenging to navigate the pressure and aggressive playstyle. The turnover count of 21, tied for the third-highest in a game this season, highlighted the struggles Iowa State faced in maintaining possession. Crooks, with six turnovers, and fifth-year senior guard Emily Ryan, with five turnovers, bore the brunt of Baylor’s defensive prowess. Of the 21 turnovers, 10 were a result of steals by the Baylor defense, showcasing their dominance on the court.
Shooting Woes and Defensive Challenges
Throughout their recent four-game winning streak, Iowa State’s prowess in 3-point shooting had been a significant factor in their success. However, against Baylor, the team’s shooting game was lackluster, with only one successful 3-point attempt out of 14. The shooting percentages further reflected their struggles, with Iowa State managing to shoot just 34% from the field. Players like Kelsey Joens and Sydney Harris, who had played pivotal roles in previous games, failed to make a significant impact on the scoreboard.
Baylor’s Dominant Offense
Facing a well-rounded Baylor offense that boasted five players averaging double-figure points, the Cyclones found it challenging to contain their opponents. Baylor’s collective shooting percentage of 43% from the field and an impressive 47% from beyond the arc posed a formidable challenge for Iowa State. Senior guard Yaya Felder led the charge with 15 points, supported by three other players scoring in double figures.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback against Baylor, Iowa State remains focused on their upcoming game against UCF, scheduled for Tuesday. With valuable lessons learned from the challenging matchup, the team is eager to bounce back and showcase their resilience on the court.
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