Key Highlights
- Iowa State women’s basketball beats Iowa for the first time since 2021, ending a three-game losing streak.
- Audi Crooks led the Cyclones with 30 points and 10 rebounds in their 74-69 victory at Hilton Coliseum.
- The game was an epic back-and-forth battle with five ties and 10 lead changes, lasting well into the fourth quarter.
- Iowa State’s star player Audi Crooks described feeling “battle tested” after the win, highlighting the team’s resilience.
The Victory: A Battle of Titans
Amid a season that began with a series of impressive wins, Iowa State women’s basketball faced its first true test against in-state rival Iowa. The game on December 10, 2023, at Hilton Coliseum proved to be the defining moment for both teams as they battled each other fiercely.
Key Players and Strategies
The star of the show was undoubtedly Audi Crooks, who scored a robust 30 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Addy Brown contributed significantly with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists. Jada Williams also played an essential role, adding 11 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds to the Cyclones’ victory.
Despite being ranked 10th in the nation, Iowa State’s dominance came from a combination of strategic plays and individual performances. The team’s ability to assert themselves early on, putting pressure on Iowa post players Ava Heiden and Hannah Stuelke through foul trouble, proved crucial for their success.
Back-and-Forth Action
The game was anything but predictable, with a series of lead changes that kept the crowd on its toes. Iowa State began by scoring the first seven points in the second quarter after Crooks hit a fadeaway jumper, taking an early 26-23 lead. However, Iowa responded with a 9-0 run to reclaim the advantage.
The final quarter saw both teams fight tooth and nail for every point.
Iowa State held a commanding lead of 61-48 going into the fourth but Iowa quickly reduced that gap with a 10-0 run. The Hawkeyes even tied things up multiple times, making it a true test for the Cyclones.
Despite the intensity and back-and-forth nature of the game, Iowa State managed to seal their victory by hitting crucial free throws late in the fourth quarter. Crooks’ two free throws proved decisive as Iowa’s Taylor McCabe missed her shot on the next possession, ensuring Iowa State’s triumph.
A New Chapter for Iowa State
Coach Bill Fennelly praised his team’s performance, noting that this victory is a testament to their resilience and battle-tested abilities. The win marks a significant milestone in the program’s history, providing a strong start to the season with a first-ranked win.
“The last thing I told them in the locker room was, if this is the best moment of our season, then we did not do our jobs,” Fennelly said. “It should be something that we celebrate and enjoy.” The victory over Iowa represents more than just a win; it’s a statement of confidence for a team looking to make an impact in the conference.
The next challenge for Iowa State comes on December 14, as they face Northern Iowa at Hilton Coliseum. This game marks the end of their non-conference schedule and sets them up for a crucial stretch ahead. The victory over Iowa has set a high bar for what is expected from this team moving forward.