Iowa State Dominates Baylor in No. 3 vs. No. 25 Matchup
In a highly anticipated showdown between two top 25 teams, No. 3 Iowa State delivered a dominant performance against No. 25 Baylor, securing a 74-55 victory at Hilton Coliseum on Jan. 4, 2025.
Iowa State Shuts Down Baylor Offense
Despite Baylor’s reputation for having the second-best scoring offense in the Big 12, averaging 86.4 points per game, it was Iowa State’s defense that stole the show on Saturday. The Cyclones held the Bears to a season-low 55 points, with Baylor shooting a mere 29.7% from the field. While Baylor managed to limit turnovers to just eight, Iowa State’s defensive prowess ultimately proved too much for them to overcome.
Iowa State senior guard Keshon Gilbert emphasized the team’s defensive versatility, stating, “Even if we don’t turn people over, our defense comes first.” Head coach T.J. Otzelberger commended the team for contesting shots effectively, showcasing their defensive capabilities throughout the game.
Trio of Cyclones Lead the Way in Scoring
Despite scoring a season-low of 74 points, Iowa State showcased a balanced offensive attack with three players reaching double figures. Gilbert, sophomore forward Milan Momcilovic, and senior guard Curtis Jones spearheaded the scoring effort, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility on offense.
Gilbert led the team with 16 points, accompanied by a season-high 10 rebounds and five assists. Momcilovic contributed 15 points, exclusively from 3-point range, maintaining his status as a sharpshooter for the Cyclones. Jones provided a spark off the bench with 14 points in 28 minutes, demonstrating the team’s wealth of scoring options.
Cyclones Shoot Well from Behind the Arc
In a stark contrast to their previous shooting performance, Iowa State excelled from behind the arc against Baylor, shooting an impressive 47.6% from 3-point range. This sharpshooting display, led by Momcilovic’s 4-for-7 shooting from deep, made it challenging for Baylor to mount a comeback.
Coach Otzelberger emphasized the importance of aggressiveness in generating open looks from three, a strategy that paid dividends for the Cyclones in this matchup. Despite previous struggles from long range, Iowa State’s offensive firepower was on full display, showcasing their potential to be a formidable force in the Big 12.
By combining suffocating defense with efficient offense, Iowa State’s victory over Baylor solidified their status as a team to watch in the collegiate basketball landscape. With a diverse array of scoring options and improved shooting efficiency, the Cyclones have set the stage for a promising season ahead.
