Iowa State Women’s Basketball Falls to #17 Baylor in Big 12 Tournament
The Iowa State women’s basketball team faced a tough challenge in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship against No. 17 Baylor. Despite a valiant effort, the Cyclones ultimately fell short, losing 69-63 to Baylor on Friday evening in Kansas City, Mo.
The game started with Baylor taking an early lead, scoring 10 points before Audi Crooks of Iowa State got the Cyclones on the board. Crooks, who had an outstanding performance, continued to chip away at Baylor’s lead, eventually totaling 32 points in the game. Her impressive performance tied the third-highest total by a Cyclone in the Big 12 Tournament, showcasing her dominance on the court.
As the game progressed, Iowa State found themselves down by as much as 14 points. However, a strong effort in the first half, including a 9-0 run, allowed the Cyclones to trim the deficit to just five points by halftime. The team showed resilience and determination, with Emily Ryan contributing five assists and making crucial plays to keep Iowa State in the game.
Despite their best efforts, Iowa State was unable to maintain their lead in the fourth quarter, as Baylor managed to secure the win and advance in the tournament. The game was a hard-fought battle, with both teams giving it their all until the final buzzer.
Impressive Performances and Milestones
Audi Crooks was a standout player for Iowa State, showcasing her skills with 32 points and breaking records for the program. Her remarkable consistency in scoring double-digit points in 65 consecutive games speaks volumes about her talent and dedication to the game. Crooks’ performance was a highlight of the game, demonstrating her importance to the team and her ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments.
Emily Ryan also delivered an impressive performance, with five assists and key plays throughout the game. Her contributions on both ends of the court were instrumental in keeping Iowa State in contention against a strong Baylor team. Ryan’s ability to step up in pressure situations and make clutch plays underscores her value to the Cyclones and her impact on the team’s performance.
Sydney Harris, Addy Brown, and other members of the Iowa State team also made significant contributions, showcasing their skills and determination on the court. Despite the loss, the Cyclones can take pride in their efforts and use this experience as motivation moving forward.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 NCAA DI Women’s Basketball Tournament selection show scheduled for March 16, Iowa State will have an opportunity to regroup and prepare for the next challenge. The team’s performance in the Big 12 Tournament, despite the outcome, demonstrates their potential and sets the stage for future success. As they await their seeding and opponents in the NCAA Tournament, the Cyclones will look to build on their strengths and continue to strive for excellence on the court.
In conclusion, the Iowa State women’s basketball team put up a strong fight against Baylor in the Big 12 Tournament, showcasing their talent, resilience, and determination. While the result may not have been in their favor, the Cyclones can take pride in their performance and use it as motivation for the challenges ahead. As they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, Iowa State will look to build on their strengths, learn from this experience, and continue to strive for success on the national stage.
