Iowa State Dominates Kansas with New Rotations
In a thrilling matchup at Hilton Coliseum, Iowa State’s women’s basketball team showcased the success of their new rotations in a decisive 78-64 victory over the University of Kansas. This win marked the Cyclones’ first Big 12 conference victory of the season, following two tough losses.
Strong Starting Lineup and Strategic Rotations
With a well-established core of three players in Iowa State’s starting lineup, including standout players like sophomore center Audi Crooks, sophomore forward Addy Brown, and senior guard Emily Ryan, the remaining spots in the lineup have seen some changes throughout the season. In the game against Kansas, sophomore guard Arianna Jackson and junior guard/forward Sydney Harris joined the starting five, bringing fresh energy and skills to the court.
Harris, a recent transfer from TCU, made an impressive impact in her first game as a starter, playing a season-high 34 minutes. She demonstrated her prowess on both ends of the court, scoring eight points, including two successful 3-point shots, and securing five defensive rebounds. Harris’s performance was crucial in maintaining the Cyclones’ momentum throughout the game.
Crooks Shines with Stellar Performance
Audi Crooks emerged as a standout player of the game, delivering a stellar performance with a team-high 33 points. Crooks’ consistency and reliability on the court were lauded by her teammates, particularly Emily Ryan, who praised Crooks for her unwavering dedication and impact on the team’s success.
Crooks’ dominant presence in the paint, where she scored 54% of her team’s points, was instrumental in securing the Cyclones’ lead against Kansas. Her impressive stat line, which included two blocks and seven rebounds, highlighted her all-around contribution to the team’s performance.
Closing Strong and Overcoming Challenges
As the game progressed, Iowa State maintained their lead and managed foul trouble among their starting lineup players. Strategic rotations and key substitutions allowed players like junior guard Lily Hansford to step up and make crucial plays in the closing minutes of the game, preventing Kansas from gaining ground.
The Cyclones’ collective effort to shut down their opponents and control the game’s pace was evident in their decisive victory. With a combination of strong defensive plays, sharp shooting, and effective rotations, Iowa State showcased their depth and resilience on the court.
As the team looks ahead to future matchups in the conference, their success against Kansas serves as a testament to their growth and adaptability throughout the season. The Cyclones’ cohesive teamwork and strategic gameplay have set a strong foundation for continued success in the challenging Big 12 conference.
