Top Ranked Iowa State Takes on West Virginia in Basketball Matchup
In a highly anticipated college basketball showdown, the No. 2 ranked Iowa State Cyclones are gearing up to face off against the West Virginia Mountaineers this Saturday. Following an impressive 17-point victory over No. 9 Kansas, Iowa State is looking to extend their winning streak on the road in Morgantown.
Mountaineers Ready to Challenge Cyclones
The West Virginia Mountaineers, with an overall record of 12-4 and a 3-2 record in the Big 12, are coming off a tough loss to No. 10 Houston. Despite this setback, the Mountaineers have shown their ability to compete against top-tier competition this season, securing key wins against ranked opponents like Gonzaga, Arizona, and Kansas.
Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger acknowledges the caliber of the West Virginia team, highlighting their impressive victories over powerhouse programs. Senior guard Javon Small has been a standout player for the Mountaineers, leading both his team and the Big 12 conference in scoring with 19.4 points per game.
Focus on Containing Javon Small
Otzelberger emphasizes the importance of containing Small’s aggressive scoring prowess to secure a victory against West Virginia. With Small’s ability to make plays for himself and his teammates, the Cyclones will need to devise a solid defensive strategy to limit his impact on the game.
In the absence of starting forward Milan Momcilovic, Iowa State has shown resilience and adaptability. Senior guard Curtis Jones seamlessly transitioned into the starting lineup, showcasing his talent and maintaining the team’s momentum. Despite facing challenges like Jackson’s demotion from the starting lineup, the Cyclones have demonstrated their depth and ability to overcome obstacles.
Embracing the ‘Next Man Up’ Mentality
Junior guard Demarion Watson’s performance in Momcilovic’s absence exemplifies the team’s ‘next man up’ mentality. Watson’s patience and readiness to seize the opportunity when it arises highlight the depth and determination of the Cyclones’ roster. As Iowa State prepares for a challenging matchup in Morgantown, the team’s cohesive mindset and commitment to stepping up when needed will be crucial for success.
As the Cyclones gear up to face the Mountaineers in a hostile environment, the stage is set for an intense and thrilling battle on the basketball court. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ as these two powerhouse teams clash in what promises to be an exciting showdown.
