Emily Ryan’s Impact on Iowa State’s Victory
In a thrilling matchup at the Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa, the Iowa State women’s basketball team faced off against the formidable West Virginia Mountaineers. However, the absence of fifth-year senior guard Emily Ryan loomed large over the Cyclones, who ultimately fell short with a score of 82-68.
The Game Recap
Iowa State, coming off a three-game winning streak, struggled in the first half, managing only 28 points compared to West Virginia’s 30 points in the first quarter alone. The Cyclones found themselves trailing 46-28 at halftime. Despite a stronger second half performance, outscoring the Mountaineers 40-36, Iowa State could not secure the win.
Junior guard/forward Sydney Harris put up a valiant effort with 12 points, including eight in the fourth quarter, while sophomore forward Addy Brown led the team with 19 points. However, the absence of Emily Ryan’s exceptional ball-handling skills proved to be a significant setback for the Cyclones.
Impacts of Emily Ryan’s Absence
Ryan, known for her 6.4 assists per game, was sorely missed as Iowa State struggled to distribute the ball effectively. With only 18 assists and a high turnover count of 25, the team faced challenges on the offensive end. Brown stepped up in Ryan’s absence, contributing seven assists, but the team felt the void left by their star player.
Challenges Faced by the Team
Sophomore center Audi Crooks also faced difficulties against the Mountaineers, scoring 13 points with a season-low two rebounds. Her shooting percentage of 40% was below her usual standards, reflecting the challenges posed by the West Virginia defense, especially their height advantage.
Freshmen guards Reagan Wilson and Aili Tanke had the opportunity to gain valuable experience in extended playing time. Despite Wilson’s six turnovers, she contributed across the board with five points, two rebounds, and two assists. Tanke, who had struggled in previous conference games, had a standout performance with 10 points and five rebounds, showcasing her potential.
Final Thoughts
The absence of Emily Ryan highlighted the importance of cohesive team play and effective ball distribution. While the Cyclones faced challenges against a tough West Virginia team, the game provided valuable learning opportunities for the younger players on the team. As they regroup and refocus, Iowa State will look to bounce back stronger in their upcoming games, aiming to harness the full potential of their talented roster.
