Iowa State delivered a resounding 97-67 victory over Colorado at Hilton Coliseum, solidifying their position as a top contender in the nation. The Cyclones' high-powered offense was on full display, with Jamarion Batemon pacing the team with 17 points. Iowa State's performance was a reflection of their depth and talent, as they built a commanding 52-29 lead by halftime and never looked back.
The Cyclones' balanced attack was too much for Colorado to handle, as Milan Momcilovic and Tamin Lipsey joined Batemon in double figures with 16 and 14 points, respectively. Lipsey also dished out 5 assists, showcasing his all-around skills. On the other side, Colorado's Isaiah Johnson did his best to keep the Buffaloes in the game, scoring a team-high 24 points. However, his efforts were not enough to overcome the Cyclones' onslaught.
CHD Scout's pre-game prediction had Iowa State winning by 14.3 points, but the Cyclones far exceeded that margin, ultimately prevailing by 30. The actual score of 97-67 was a far cry from the predicted 85-71, highlighting Iowa State's dominance. The Cyclones' performance was a statement win, demonstrating their ability to take care of business against a respectable opponent.
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Final
As the game unfolded, it became clear that Iowa State was the superior team. The Cyclones' 52-point first half set the tone for the rest of the game, and they continued to pour it on in the second half, outscoring Colorado 45-38. The Buffaloes struggled to find any rhythm, and their 29-point first half dug a hole that proved too deep to climb out of.
This result has real consequences for both teams' tournament resumes. For Iowa State, the win marks a Quadrant 3 victory, further bolstering their already impressive profile. With a current NET ranking of 7, the Cyclones are firmly entrenched in the conversation for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament. On the other hand, Colorado's loss is classified as a Quadrant 1 defeat, which, although not ideal, is still a valuable experience for a team looking to build its resume. The Buffaloes' current NET ranking of 81 leaves them on the bubble, but they will have opportunities to improve their standing in the coming weeks.
In the end, Iowa State's convincing win over Colorado serves as a reminder of their status as a national powerhouse. With their depth, talent, and balanced attack, the Cyclones are a team to be reckoned with, and their tournament chances continue to look strong. As the season enters its final stretch, Iowa State want to build on this performance and make a deep run in the postseason.