Iowa State Dominates Colorado with Statement Win: 3 Key Takeaways
From the opening tip to the final buzzer, Iowa State left no doubt about who controlled this matchup. In a game that felt over almost as soon as it began, the Cyclones overwhelmed Colorado with physicality, depth, and execution-putting the rest of the Big 12 (and maybe the nation) on notice.
Let’s break down what we learned from this lopsided contest.
1. Rebounding Remains a Major Concern for Colorado
You can’t win if you can’t secure the basketball-and right now, Colorado is struggling to do just that. Iowa State absolutely owned the glass in this one, finishing with a +16 edge in rebounds (38 to 22). That kind of disparity isn’t just a stat-it’s a storyline.
Senior forward Joshua Jefferson led the way for the Cyclones with eight boards, setting the tone early and often. Meanwhile, Colorado looked a step slow and a body short in nearly every rebounding situation. Second-chance opportunities tilted heavily in Iowa State’s favor, and it showed in the scoreboard.
Rebounding is one of those effort-and-discipline categories that coaches harp on, and right now, Colorado’s not checking that box. If they want to stay competitive down the stretch, especially in a physical conference, that has to change-and fast.
2. Isaiah Johnson Needs Help-Fast
Freshman guard Isaiah Johnson showed up. The rest of Colorado? Not so much.
Johnson poured in 24 points on an efficient 7-of-13 shooting, and he was nearly automatic from the line (8-of-9). The kid’s got poise, touch, and a scorer’s mentality that’s rare for a first-year player. But it’s tough to carry an entire offense on your back-especially against a team like Iowa State.
Outside of Johnson, Colorado’s starting unit combined for just 26 points. And that includes a near non-factor performance from center Elijah Malone, who logged only six minutes. The bench did offer a bit of a spark-Josiah Sanders, Ian Inman, and Andrew Crawford chipped in 17 combined points-but it wasn’t enough to keep pace with Iowa State’s relentless attack.
Johnson is a bright spot, no question. But until Colorado develops more consistent scoring threats around him, opponents will key in on him-and nights like this will keep happening.
3. Iowa State Looks Built for March
This wasn’t just a win for Iowa State-it was a statement. The Cyclones didn’t just beat Colorado; they dismantled them with a level of balance and efficiency that screams postseason potential.
Six different players scored in double figures. Let that sink in.
That kind of scoring depth is a nightmare for opposing defenses. Jamarion Bateman led the charge with 17 points off the bench, showing just how deep this team can go without missing a beat.
And the shooting numbers? Eye-popping.
Iowa State shot 61% from the field and 48% from beyond the arc (10-of-21). When a team is that efficient, it’s not just about hot shooting-it’s about smart shot selection, crisp ball movement, and players understanding their roles.
The Cyclones also dominated inside, outscoring Colorado 46-28 in the paint. That’s physicality, execution, and a clear sign that this team can win in multiple ways.
If Iowa State keeps playing like this, they’re going to be a serious problem in the Big 12-and a dangerous draw once the NCAA Tournament rolls around.
Bottom Line: Iowa State looked like a complete team on Thursday night-deep, disciplined, and dangerous. Colorado, on the other hand, has some soul-searching to do. Rebounding and scoring depth are glaring issues, and until those are addressed, the gap between them and the conference’s elite will remain wide.
But for now, the spotlight belongs to the Cyclones. And if this game is any indication, they’re just getting started.