The Iowa State Cyclones delivered an impressive performance at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, overpowering the Colorado Buffaloes in women’s college basketball. The Cyclones, with a record of 17-9 overall and 8-5 in the Big 12 conference, showcased their dominance as they closed the final 5:14 of the first quarter with a remarkable 17-0 run. This victory against Colorado, who stood at 16-7 overall and 7-5 in the Big 12, marked the eighth consecutive win for Iowa State at Hilton Coliseum against their old Big 8/12 rivals.
A Trip Down Memory Lane: Honoring Past Champions
During the game, Iowa State took a moment to honor the 1999-00 and 2000-01 teams on the 25th anniversary of their back-to-back Big 12 Championships. This celebration added a nostalgic touch to the game, reminding fans of the Cyclones’ rich history of success in women’s basketball.
The turning point in the game came in the opening quarter when Iowa State surged ahead with a 17-0 run to close the period. A layup by Emily Ryan ignited the Cyclones’ momentum, followed by a series of impressive plays that included back-to-back baskets by Audi Crooks and a trio of 3-pointers by Arianna Jackson and Sydney Harris. This offensive onslaught propelled Iowa State to a commanding 29-9 lead, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
It was a night of milestones for the Cyclones, with Emily Ryan making her mark in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history by moving into the top 10 for career assists. Her stellar performance in the first quarter showcased her exceptional playmaking skills and contribution to the team’s success.
Dominance Continues: Cyclones Maintain Control
As the game progressed, Iowa State maintained its lead, with neither team able to sustain momentum in the second quarter. However, Audi Crooks emerged as a standout player for the Cyclones, delivering 16 points on 8-of-11 shooting and showcasing her scoring prowess. Crooks’ consistent performance, scoring in double figures for the 58th consecutive game, underscored her importance to the team’s success on the court.
In the third quarter, Colorado attempted to mount a comeback, narrowing the lead to 14 points before Iowa State responded with a decisive 12-2 run. The Cyclones’ ability to answer Colorado’s offensive bursts with timely scoring demonstrated their resilience and determination to maintain control of the game.
Entering the final frame with a comfortable lead, Iowa State continued to dominate, with Crooks and Kelsey Joens combining forces to extend the lead to 69-42 early in the fourth quarter. The Cyclones’ cohesive play and strong team effort were on full display as they secured a convincing victory over Colorado.
As the game concluded, Iowa State celebrated a well-deserved win, with Crooks leading the charge with a remarkable double-double performance, tallying 33 points and 12 rebounds. Her exceptional scoring prowess and record-breaking achievements highlighted her importance to the team and solidified her status as a key player for the Cyclones.
The game showcased Iowa State’s impressive defensive capabilities, holding Colorado to just 56 points and marking the 14th time this season that they kept an opponent under 60 points. This defensive prowess, combined with their offensive firepower, has been instrumental in the Cyclones’ success throughout the season.
With each game, Iowa State continues to build on its legacy of excellence in women’s basketball, setting new records and milestones that underscore the team’s dedication and commitment to achieving greatness on the court. The Cyclones’ unwavering determination and collective effort have propelled them to victory, showcasing their potential for even greater success in the games to come.
