Unbeaten Streak Ends: No. 10 ISU Defeats No. 11 Iowa
Prepare to dive into the gripping world of college basketball, where the electrifying clash between No. 10 Iowa State and No. 11 Iowa unfolded with intensity, energy, and a hint of magic that only sports can muster. Imagine a stadium abuzz with 14,009 fans, the third-largest crowd in Iowa State’s history, as they witnessed their Cyclones snatch victory from a determined Hawkeye team and etch their undefeated streak onto the scoreboards.
A Night to Remember
On a cold December evening in Ames, Iowa State’s women’s basketball team delivered a performance to remember, clinching victory with a 74-69 score against previously unbeaten Iowa. With this win, the Cyclones not only secured their spot at the top but also claimed the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series, 13-2, proving once again their prowess on the court.
The Thrill of a Competitive Face-Off
Both teams entered the match undefeated, setting the stage for a classic tussle not seen since 2004. The real fireworks began in the third quarter, where Iowa State’s dynamic duo, Audi Crooks and Addy Brown, led the charge. Crooks dazzled the crowd with her third consecutive 30-plus point game, while Brown complemented her efforts with a stellar 20-point, 12-rebound double-double performance. The synergy between these players made dreams a reality on the court.
Turning the Tide
The game commenced with Iowa State taking an early lead, only to find Iowa quickly reversing it. The first quarter was a dance of lead changes, like a ballet of athleticism, as Crooks and Brown flipped the favor to Iowa State with their strategic jumprs. The Cyclones stole the show in the third quarter, crafting a lead that proved unassailable as the time ticked away. A standout performance from Jada Williams, who recorded a double-double with 12 assists and 11 points, fortified the Cyclones’ lead, driving the crowd into a frenzy.
The Closing Minutes
Iowa fought valiantly in the final minutes, closing in to within three points, but Kenzie Hare delivered a crucial block that all but sealed the victory. Crooks iced the game with precision free throw shooting that ensured her team would walk off the court victorious. The celebrations were heartfelt as the final buzzer resounded, marking ISU’s unblemished 11-0 start to the season.
A Glimpse Ahead
With victory in hand, Iowa State sets its sight on another in-state showdown against UNI. Fans eagerly anticipate more stellar performances streamed on ESPN+. The Cyclones’ record, now standing at an impressive 882-678 in their lifetime and 11-0 this season, speaks volumes about the team’s relentless passion and dedication.
Conclusion: A Game That Echoes Through Time
As the echoes of cheers still linger in the air, this match will be remembered as one for the ages. A spectacle of talent, resilience, and sportsmanship that signifies not just a victory, but a statement that Iowa State powerhouses remain a formidable force in collegiate women’s basketball. According to Iowa State Athletics, the Cyclones’ triumph over Iowa caps a night of extraordinary athletics and unbeatable spirit.