Iowa State Upsets No. 8 Kansas, Continues Perfect Home Record
AMES, Iowa – Iowa State basketball made a statement this week, securing a decisive 79-75 victory over No. 8 Kansas on Saturday afternoon at Hilton Coliseum. This triumph marked the Cyclones’ second win against their southwesterly neighbors in a matter of days, following their controversial victory over Kansas State on Wednesday.
With this pair of victories, Iowa State (16-4, 5-2 Big 12) has firmly positioned itself in the Big 12 title race, currently trailing only Texas Tech in the conference standings. Cyclone point guard Tamin Lipsey expressed the team’s aspirations, stating, “Our standard is the top of the Big 12, and that’s what we’re competing for every day.”
Cyclones’ Sharpshooting Performance Paces Victory
Iowa State’s triumph over Kansas was fueled by a remarkable 3-point shooting display. The Cyclones drained a season-high 14 shots from beyond the arc, surpassing their previous best of 10 made threes against Eastern Illinois and Florida A&M in non-conference play.
Cyclone forward Tre King, who entered the game with a modest 3-of-16 record from 3-point range, erupted for 21 points, including an impressive 4-of-7 performance from deep. Keshon Gilbert contributed 16 points for Iowa State, while Lipsey dished out eight assists, orchestrating the offense with precision.
Close Finish Decided by Clutch 3-Pointer
Iowa State maintained a comfortable lead throughout the second half, but Kansas staged a late rally, cutting the deficit to just two points in the final minute. However, the Cyclones responded with a clutch 3-pointer from Gilbert with 41 seconds remaining, effectively sealing the victory.
Gilbert described the play, saying, “I had nowhere to go, so I hit him with a little move and I just shot it. I was lucky enough for it to go in.”
Iowa State’s Improved 3-Point Shooting
Iowa State’s 14 made 3-pointers were a testament to their improved shooting performance. Prior to the Kansas game, the Cyclones ranked among the worst 3-point shooting teams in the Big 12 during conference play, connecting on just 27.4% of their attempts.
Kansas coach Bill Self acknowledged Iowa State’s shooting prowess, stating, “They made shots they hadn’t been making statistically this year. We played the percentages, thinking coming up here that would be the smart play and we could eliminate some ball-screen stuff by switching. They made us pay for it. They shot it great.”
Tre King Emerges as Unlikely Sharpshooter
King’s 4-of-7 performance from 3-point range was a pleasant surprise for Iowa State. The Cyclones had anticipated this possibility, recognizing that opponents might underestimate King’s shooting ability.
King explained, “One thing we talked about in preparing for this game was that a lot of guys were going to help off of me because they didn’t think I could shoot the ball. So, one thing coach T.J. and coach Erik Crawford really talked to me about is if they sag off and it’s the right shot and the right time, take it and make it.”
Iowa State’s Regular-Season Meeting with Kansas
Due to the Big 12’s expansion to 14 teams this season, Iowa State and Kansas will not meet again in the regular season. This marks the first time since 1921 that the Cyclones will not play in Lawrence.
This change in the schedule has sparked discussions about the perception of the regular-season league championship. Kansas coach Bill Self, who has won an impressive 16 regular-season Big 12 championships, expressed his thoughts on the matter.
Self stated, “I think winning the league mindset with players and fans is different than it was when you knew you were playing everybody twice. I don’t think it has the same bearing right now as what it’s had in years past.”
Recognition for Longtime Official John Higgins
Prior to the game, Iowa State recognized John Higgins, a respected and experienced referee known for his shock of blonde hair and his work in numerous Final Fours. Higgins received a framed picture of Hilton Coliseum from Iowa State athletic director Jamie Pollard.
Higgins, who hails from nearby Omaha, Nebraska, retired last season after an illustrious 35-year career that included 29 NCAA Tournaments, nine Final Fours, and two national title games. He is now the coordinator of officials for the Western Basketball Officiating Consortium.
Iowa State’s Upcoming Schedule
After a demanding week that included two intense games and allegations of huddle spying by Kansas State, Iowa State will enjoy a brief respite. The Cyclones will not have their usual mid-week game and instead will travel to Waco on Saturday to face No. 14 Baylor.
The Bears (14-4, 3-2 Big 12) have suffered back-to-back road losses heading into their Saturday afternoon home game against TCU. Iowa State swept Baylor in three games last season.