Iowa State’s Women’s Basketball Team Triumphs Over No. 4 Baylor, Securing Back-to-Back Ranked Wins
On January 15, 2024, history was made at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa. The Iowa State Cyclones women’s basketball team (12-4, 5-0 Big 12) faced off against the formidable No. 4 Baylor Bears (14-2, 3-2 Big 12) in a highly anticipated matchup. In a thrilling showdown, the Cyclones emerged victorious with a resounding 66-63 victory, marking their second Top 25 triumph in just four days.
A Sea of Cardinal and Gold: Iowa State Fans Unite
Despite the frigid winter weather, the loyal Iowa State faithful braved the elements, packing Hilton Coliseum to capacity. Their unwavering support created an electric atmosphere, propelling the Cyclones to yet another memorable victory over a ranked opponent. This resounding win stands as the team’s most significant triumph over a ranked foe since their stunning upset of the then-second-ranked Baylor squad in 2020. Furthermore, it marks the first time since the 2009-2010 season that Iowa State has secured consecutive victories over ranked opponents. This hard-fought win adds to the Cyclones’ storied history, etching their name in the record books with their ninth Top 5 win and 18th Top 10 win.
Audi Crooks Shines, Leading the Cyclones to Victory
Freshman sensation Audi Crooks emerged as the catalyst for the Cyclones’ success, delivering a stellar performance that left the Baylor defense reeling. The Algona native poured in a game-high 23 points, complemented by an impressive six rebounds. Crooks’ dominance in the paint proved instrumental in securing the win, as Iowa State outscored Baylor 36-24 in the paint. This marked the second consecutive 20-point outing for the phenomenal in-state freshman, showcasing her immense talent and bright future in the sport.
Hannah Belanger and Addy Brown Provide Solid Support
Hannah Belanger provided a steady presence for the Cyclones, contributing 15 points, including three clutch three-pointers, and a pair of free throws that proved crucial in the game’s closing moments. Freshman Addy Brown narrowly missed out on another double-double, finishing with nine points and 11 rebounds, along with a career-high six steals. Brown’s defensive prowess was evident throughout the game, as her six steals matched the most by any Cyclone since teammate Emily Ryan’s nine steals against Omaha in 2021.
Cyclones’ Stifling Defense Frustrates Baylor
Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, forcing turnovers at a rate higher than their season averages. The Cyclones’ relentless defense forced 17 Baylor turnovers, disrupting their offensive rhythm and creating opportunities for Iowa State to capitalize on the Bears’ mistakes. Iowa State’s defensive intensity held Baylor to a mere 27 percent shooting from beyond the arc, further limiting their scoring potential. The Cyclones capitalized on the Bears’ turnovers, converting them into 21 points, demonstrating their ability to turn defensive stops into offensive production.
Dre’una Edwards Leads Baylor’s Scoring Effort
Dre’una Edwards emerged as the leading scorer for the Bears, finishing with 19 points, while Jada Walker contributed 14 points and a game-high six assists. However, the Bears’ efforts fell short as they suffered their second consecutive loss, following their 21-point defeat at the hands of Kansas.
A Thrilling Finish: Crooks Delivers the Game-Winning Shot
The game unfolded as a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to establish a significant lead. After Iowa State jumped out to an early 10-5 lead, Baylor responded with a surge, taking an 11-10 advantage midway through the first quarter. The Bears maintained their lead until late in the fourth quarter, when Crooks sank a lay-up with three minutes remaining, tying the score. Baylor briefly regained the lead with 30 seconds left, prompting Iowa State to call a timeout.
Out of the timeout, the Cyclones executed a perfectly designed play, with the ball finding Brown, who then passed it to Crooks. Crooks, displaying remarkable composure, backed down her Baylor defender and finished through contact, drawing a foul and completing the three-point play to give Iowa State the lead with just 24 seconds remaining.
The Cyclones’ defense held strong in the final seconds, forcing Baylor into an airballed three-pointer, sealing the victory for Iowa State. The Hilton Coliseum crowd erupted in jubilation as the Cyclones celebrated another hard-fought win over a ranked opponent in their home arena.
Iowa State’s Limited Lead Reflects Their Strength in Adversity
Despite leading for only six minutes of the game, Iowa State’s ability to start and finish strong proved crucial in securing the victory. The Cyclones’ resilience and determination were evident throughout the contest, as they never allowed Baylor to pull away and remained focused on executing their game plan.
Emily Ryan: An Unsung Hero for the Cyclones
While Crooks, Belanger, and Brown garnered much of the attention, Emily Ryan played a pivotal role in the Cyclones’ success. When Baylor countered Iowa State’s early lead with intense pressure, Ryan stepped up, providing stability and composure to the team. Her contributions of nine points, three rebounds, and four assists were instrumental in Iowa State’s victory.
Upcoming Challenge: Iowa State Prepares to Face Texas Tech
The Cyclones will have little time to rest as they prepare for their next matchup against Texas Tech in Lubbock on Wednesday, January 17. The game is scheduled to tip off at 6 p.m. and will be broadcast on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Iowa State will look to extend their winning streak and maintain their dominance in the Big 12 conference.