AMES — Iowa State will return to its home floor tonight as the Cyclones will host Kansas State in search of their first win in the new year (6:30 on Cyclones T.V.).
After two straight losses in which the offense has failed to reach 50 points, fans have every right to be concerned about the pending outcome of this game. While the effort on defense has been outstanding, the game remains a two-way sport.
“No big secrets here, everyone knows what the issue is with our team,” head coach Bill Fennelly said. “This is a sport where you have to do it at both ends of the court and right now, offensively we’re struggling, which isn’t reassuring with a zone team coming to play us [tonight].
Even so, there is still reason to believe in this Iowa State squad heading into tonight’s matchup.
Just like they always have, the ‘Clones play their best ball in the comfort of their own home. ISU is currently 6-2 at Hilton this year, with both of those losses being by single digits.
Bridget Carleton will have her hands full as usual, going up against a disciplined Kansas State team that plays solely zone defense. Coach Fennelly pointed out the possibility of the Wildcats using a a Box-and-1 defense on Carleton as well.
At this point in the season, Iowa State is still searching for some confidence on the offensive end. Fennelly used an interesting tactic over the past weekend by showing his players box scores of the best games they have ever played.
Additionally, Fennelly said that he showed each player six minutes of every shot they’ve ever made before the West Virginia game.
“We’re not asking you to do something you’ve never done,” said Fennelly.
One thing Iowa State has done?
Beat Kansas State in Hilton.
Winning 75-69 last year, the formula isn’t any different this time around. Iowa State needs to hit some shots from deep, rile up the crowd, and let their defense do the rest.
FINAL NOTES
– Bridget Carleton is the only high-major player in the nation averaging 18 points, 6.5 rebounds, three assists, and 0.5 blocks per game.
– Iowa State ranks first in the Big 12 in threes made per game (8.3)
