IMG SOURCE: cbssports.com
In a thrilling Big 12 matchup, the unranked Iowa State Cyclones delivered a stunning upset by defeating the No. 2-ranked Houston Cougars, handing them their first loss of the season. Tamin Lipsey led the charge for the Cyclones with 14 points, while freshman Milan Momcilovic sealed the victory with a clutch jumper and crucial free throws in the final seconds of the game.
Iowa State came out firing on all cylinders, opening the game with a 14-0 run that left Houston stunned. The Cyclones’ suffocating defense forced turnovers and disrupted Houston’s offensive rhythm. Milan Momcilovic and Tamin Lipsey hit early three-pointers, and Hason Ward added an emphatic alley-oop dunk to set the tone for the Cyclones.
Despite the early deficit, Houston fought back in the second half. Jamal Shead and Emanuel Sharp led the charge for the Cougars, with Sharp scoring a game-high 20 points. Houston managed to tie the game at 41 and later at 53, thanks to Shead’s clutch jumper. However, Iowa State remained composed and responded with critical baskets to regain the lead.
WHAT A SHOT FOR THE FRESHMAN @CycloneMBB 🤯
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— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) January 10, 2024
With the game tied at 53-all and less than a minute remaining, Iowa State called a timeout to draw up a play. Out of the timeout, Milan Momcilovic showcased his composure and skill by spinning away from a double team and sinking a difficult baseline jumper to give Iowa State a 55-53 lead. Momcilovic’s shot proved to be the game-winner and showcased his ability to perform under pressure.
Following Momcilovic’s go-ahead basket, Houston had one last chance to tie or take the lead. However, L.J. Cryer’s three-pointer missed the mark, and Iowa State secured the rebound. With 10 seconds left on the clock, Momcilovic was fouled and calmly sank two free throws to extend Iowa State’s lead to four points, effectively sealing the victory.
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Iowa State’s victory can be attributed in large part to their tenacious defense. The Cyclones disrupted Houston’s offensive flow, forcing the Cougars into 16 turnovers. Iowa State capitalized on these turnovers, scoring 17 points off of them. Their defensive intensity and ability to create turnovers proved crucial in securing the upset victory.
Iowa State’s win over Houston marks their seventh victory against a top-10 opponent in the last two seasons, the most in Division I basketball. Under head coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Cyclones have established themselves as a formidable force against highly-ranked teams. This victory adds to their impressive resume and solidifies their reputation as a team capable of competing with the best.
Prior to their matchup against Iowa State, Houston had been riding a 12-game road winning streak, the longest in the nation. However, their visit to Ames, Iowa proved to be a challenging one. The Cyclones’ home court advantage and relentless play led to Houston’s first road loss of the season. The defeat serves as a reminder of the competitiveness and strength of the Big 12 conference.
Despite the loss, Houston remains a formidable team and will look to bounce back in their upcoming matchup against TCU. As for Iowa State, they will carry the momentum from this impressive victory into their next game against Oklahoma State. Both teams will aim to continue their success in conference play and build upon their performances.
