Nov 25, 2024; Lahaina, Hawaii, USA; Iowa State Cyclones guard Keshon Gilbert (10) goes to the basket over Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome (4) during the first half an NCAA college basketball game at Lahaina Civic Center. Mandatory Credit: Marco Garcia-Imagn Images
No. 5 Iowa State returns home to Hilton Coliseum Wednesday night for a top 10 showdown with the No. 10 Marquette Golden Eagles as part of the Big 12-Big East Battle (7:00 p.m., ESPN+).
Both teams bring a wealth of talent and strong early-season resumes, making this an early test for two programs with lofty aspirations in the 2024-2025 season. With Marquette ranked No. 5 nationally and Iowa State sitting at No. 6, the matchup promises high drama and elite basketball.
A Storied Series Rekindled
The Cyclones and Golden Eagles have met only eight times, with Marquette holding a narrow 5-3 lead in the series. The two programs last faced each other in the 2004 NIT semifinals, where Iowa State claimed a 77-69 victory.
Head coach Shaka Smart is no stranger to Hilton Coliseum, having posted a 9-4 record against the Cyclones during his tenure at Texas. Now leading a surging Marquette squad, he aims to extend his dominance.
Marquette’s Best Start in Over a Decade
Marquette enters the contest undefeated at 8-0, marking the program’s best start since the 2011-2012 season. Their record includes notable victories over top 40 KenPom teams Georgia, Maryland and Purdue, showcasing their ability to handle tough competition.
Offensively, Marquette thrives on pace and precision, averaging 84.5 points per game while shooting 48% from the field. Defensively, the Golden Eagles rank first nationally in steals (12.4 per game) and fifth in turnover margin (+8.3).
The key to Marquette’s success is senior guard Kam Jones, who leads the team with 19.6 points and 6.2 assists per game. Jones also tallied a double-double with 20 points and 10 assists in their most recent victory over Western Carolina.
Supporting Jones are players like David Joplin (15.9 points, 6 rebounds) and defensive stalwarts Chase Ross and Stevie Mitchell, who anchor a relentless full-court press.
Cyclones Build Momentum After Maui Invitational
Iowa State comes into the game with a 5-1 record, fresh off a strong showing at the Maui Invitational. Despite a heart-wrenching two-point loss to Auburn, the Cyclones showed resilience, defeating a talented Dayton squad and routing Colorado in back-to-back games. Iowa State is averaging 86.8 points per game, with a balanced attack led by second year guard Keshon Gilbert (16.5 points, 5.3 assists) and sophomore forward Milan Momcilovic (14.2 points, 40% 3PT).
Defensively, the Cyclones rank among the nation’s elite, allowing just 65 points per game and forcing 14.8 turnovers per contest. Under coach T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State’s identity is rooted in defensive intensity, utilizing traps and blitzes to disrupt opponents’ offensive flow.
Keys to the Game
For Marquette:
- Protect the Ball: Iowa State thrives on turnovers and transition opportunities. Kam Jones and Stevie Mitchell must maintain composure against the Cyclones’ pressure defense.
- Dominate the Paint: With Iowa State rebuilding its frontcourt, Marquette will look to exploit mismatches inside. Joplin’s versatility and rebounding will be critical. Look for Joshua Jefferson to get this assignment defensively.
- Bench Contributions: The Golden Eagles’ reserves have stepped up in recent games, averaging 34 points over the last two outings. Sustained production from players like Zaide Lowery and Caedin Hamilton could win them this game.
For Iowa State:
- Limit Kam Jones: Slowing down Jones will be a collective effort, with Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert likely sharing defensive duties. Physicality and ball denial will be crucial. Look for Nate Heise to also have a couple cracks at Jones.
- Exploit Transition Opportunities: Iowa State’s athletic backcourt of Lipsey and Curtis Jones thrives in the open court. Creating fast-break chances off turnovers can energize the Hilton Coliseum crowd.
- Win the Perimeter Battle: Momcilovic and Curtis Jones need to knock down perimeter shots to keep Marquette’s defense honest. Efficient three-point shooting will stretch the Golden Eagles’ defense and create driving lanes.
Clash of Philosophies
This game pits two disciplined teams with contrasting styles. Marquette’s high-octane offense and full-court pressure will challenge Iowa State’s ability to execute in the halfcourt. Conversely, the Cyclones’ defensive schemes will test Marquette’s patience and decision-making.
The battle between Kam Jones and Iowa State’s defensive will be pivotal. Jones has proven capable of breaking down defenses with his scoring and playmaking, but Iowa State’s ability to force turnovers and contest shots may disrupt his rhythm.
Player Matchups to Watch
- David Joplin vs. Milan Momcilovic: Both forwards bring unique skill sets. Joplin’s physicality and rebounding will clash with Momcilovic’s shooting and craftiness.
- Curtis Jones vs. Chase Ross: A sharpshooter versus a defensive ace. Curtis Jones’ three-point shooting will test Ross’ perimeter defense.
- Ben Gold vs. Dishon Jackson: Gold wants to shoot from the perimeter, and at 6-foot-11 235 pounds, Jackson will be able to use his size and strength to get to the free throw line and get easy buckets around the rim. Jackson has been great early in games for Iowa State so far this season.
Final Thoughts
With both teams riding high on early-season success, this matchup serves as a test for their potential as national contenders. For Marquette, a road victory solidifies their place among the elite, while Iowa State looks to defend its home court and build momentum heading into conference play. It will be a packed Hilton Coliseum, expect a game of runs, defensive intensity, and potentially some clutch performances.
