Iowa State vs. Oklahoma State Basketball: Prediction and Key Highlights
The Iowa State Cyclones will face the Oklahoma State Cowboys in a highly anticipated rematch on January 24, 2024. The game is set for a 2 p.m. CT tip-off at Gallagher-Iba Arena and will be available for streaming on Peacock.
Iowa State vs. Oklahoma State Basketball: Key Highlights
The No. 9-ranked Cyclones enter the matchup with a record of 17-2, including 4-2 in the Big 12 Conference. Iowa State is looking to regain momentum after a strong victory against UCF, where they won 87-57 on January 20. This win came after two consecutive losses. In their previous encounter on January 10, Iowa State defeated Oklahoma State, 83-71.
Oklahoma State is currently 14-5 and ranks 2-4 in conference play. The Cowboys are also looking to bounce back after a heart-wrenching 68-65 loss to TCU on January 20, where they squandered a late-game lead.
Recent Performance and Road Challenges
- Iowa State has a mixed record away from home, standing at 2-2 this season.
- The Cyclones previously excelled in road games, notably defeating former No. 1 Purdue 81-58.
- However, they have struggled recently; two losses in Big 12 play came against Kansas (84-63) and Cincinnati (79-70).
- Iowa State has lost four of its last five games at Gallagher-Iba Arena.
Senior guard Tamin Lipsey stated, “We need to avoid being on our heels and make the opposition uncomfortable.” His insights reflect the Cyclones’ need for pressure defense to succeed in tough environments.
Oklahoma State’s Returning Talent
Oklahoma State will welcome back Vyctorius Miller, a key scorer who missed the initial matchup due to an ankle injury. Miller averages 13.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, showing a significant 45.2% shooting from beyond the arc.
- In the previous meeting, Oklahoma State’s Parsa Fallah recorded a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.
- Anthony Roy, the Cowboys’ leading scorer, adds 17.6 points per game, demonstrating consistent scoring ability.
Iowa State’s Strategy and Key Players
The Cyclones aim to establish a fast-paced game and impose their will defensively. They successfully generated 31 points from turnovers in their last victory over UCF. A focus will be on maintaining offensive efficiency and rebounding, especially against Oklahoma State, who can exploit gaps in defense.
Coach TJ Otzelberger has emphasized consistency in habits and performance. The Cyclones are eager to solidify their strategy and return to winning ways in challenging environments.
Prediction for the Game
Considering recent performances and the return of critical players for Oklahoma State, the matchup promises to be close. However, Iowa State’s ability to create turnovers and maintain strong rebounding gives them the edge.
Prediction: Iowa State 82, Oklahoma State 71
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