In an electrifying showdown at Hilton Coliseum, the Iowa State Cyclones delivered a commanding performance, overpowering the 14th-ranked Kansas State team with a final score of 85-63 in Women’s College Basketball action. The star of the day was Audi Crooks, who lit up the court with a season-high 36 points, while Emily Ryan came close to achieving a triple-double with an impressive stat line of 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The Cyclones, with a record of 21-11 overall and 12-6 in the Big 12 conference, left their mark on the court as they outplayed the Kansas State team, who entered the game with a 25-6 record, including a 13-5 conference standing. The victory not only showcased the team’s skill and teamwork but also provided a fitting finale for Ryan, who may have played her final game at Hilton Coliseum.
As the final buzzer sounded, it was clear that Crooks had stolen the spotlight with a stellar performance. The sophomore’s exceptional shooting, going 14-for-18 from the field and converting 8-of-11 free throws, earned her a well-deserved double-double, combining 36 points with 10 rebounds. Her dominance was especially evident in the second half, where she poured in 26 of her total 36 points to secure the Cyclones’ victory.
The Cyclone defense played a pivotal role in the game, holding the Kansas State team to just 33.3 percent shooting. On the offensive end, Iowa State showcased their efficiency, shooting an impressive 53.6 percent from the field and outrebounding their opponents 47-31, demonstrating their dominance on both ends of the court.
### A Thrilling Showdown Unfolds
The game started with Iowa State taking an early lead of 18-16 at the end of the first quarter, setting the stage for a closely contested matchup. Kansas State briefly took the lead in the second quarter, going up 22-21, but the Cyclones quickly responded with sharpshooter Sydney Harris draining a crucial 3-pointer. Heading into halftime with a slim lead of 35-34, the Cyclones showcased their resilience and determination.
The third quarter saw Crooks taking center stage, as she erupted for 14 points, leading the Cyclones on a 12-0 run late in the period to establish a comfortable 62-49 lead after three quarters of play. With a solid advantage heading into the final quarter, the Cyclones maintained their composure and extended their lead to secure a convincing 22-point victory, marking their first Top-25 win of the season.
### Star Performances and Milestones
Crooks and Ryan led the charge for the Cyclones, with Kelsey Joens, Addy Brown, and Sydney Harris also contributing significantly to the team’s success. K-State’s Temira Poindexter put on a commendable performance, finishing with 17 points in a losing effort.
Looking ahead, Iowa State will set their sights on the Phillips 66 Big 12 Championships in Kansas City, where they will enter as the seven-seed and face a formidable challenge in their upcoming matchups. The team’s performance in this game not only secured a crucial victory but also showcased their potential in the postseason.
As the dust settles on an exhilarating game, the Cyclones can take pride in their performance and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead. The players’ individual achievements and milestones only add to the team’s success, highlighting their dedication and talent on the court. With their eyes set on future victories, the Iowa State Cyclones are poised to make a strong statement in the competitive world of Women’s College Basketball.
