Iowa State's time in the mountains wrapped up on a high note as they secured a commanding 75-59 victory over Utah in Salt Lake City. The Cyclones dominated the final 33 minutes, leaving their locker room and the flight back to Ames buzzing with excitement.
Junior standout Milan Momcilovic made history by setting a new single-season record for made 3-pointers at Iowa State. Meanwhile, senior Joshua Jefferson delivered a stellar performance, racking up 21 points, six rebounds, and three assists to propel the Cyclones to victory.
The freshmen trio also made significant contributions. Jamarion Batemon led the charge, with Killyan Toure adding four points and three assists despite early foul trouble. This win keeps Iowa State on track for a double-bye in the upcoming Big 12 Tournament, with just three regular season games left before they head to Kansas City.
Batemon's Defensive Brilliance
Jamarion Batemon was a defensive force in the first half, disrupting Utah's plays and converting turnovers into points. His quick hands and anticipation led to a layup and a dunk, while Tamin Lipsey added a smooth finger roll. Batemon's defensive efforts were pivotal, and he even nailed a corner 3-pointer, showcasing his all-around game.
Heading into halftime, Batemon led Iowa State with nine points, two steals, and an assist, helping the Cyclones secure a 41-31 lead. His impact was undeniable, reflected in his impressive plus-15 rating.
Momcilovic's Record-Breaking Night
Milan Momcilovic etched his name into Iowa State's record books with his 103rd made 3-pointer of the season. His corner shot, courtesy of a cross-court pass from Tamin Lipsey, extended the Cyclones' lead to 58-44.
Momcilovic wasn't done, sinking another three on the next possession to push the advantage to 61-44. Despite a slight dip in his shooting percentage, he remains the nation's premier marksman from beyond the arc.
Lineup Changes and Key Contributions
Coach T.J. Otzelberger shook things up with a new starting lineup, bringing in Dominykas Pleta for his first career start.
This change saw veteran Blake Buchanan coming off the bench, but he quickly made his presence felt. Buchanan contributed four points and two rebounds, including a timely dunk before halftime.
Pleta, though off to a slow start, managed a block and added three points and two rebounds.
Looking Ahead
Iowa State's next challenge comes against the No. 16-ranked Texas Tech at Hilton Coliseum. The Red Raiders, led by coach Grant McCasland, recently suffered a blow with JT Toppin's season-ending ACL injury. However, they still boast a formidable lineup, including sophomore guard Christian Anderson, a potential NBA first-round pick, who is shooting 44.2% from deep and ranks in the top 30 for assists nationally.
Texas Tech's roster also features LeJuan Watts, known for his playmaking and rebounding, and Donovan Atwell, who is shooting over 45.5% from three. The Red Raiders snapped Cincinnati's four-game win streak with an 80-68 victory, highlighted by Anderson's 31-point, 11-rebound, and seven-assist performance.
As Iowa State gears up for this crucial matchup, they'll look to maintain their momentum and secure their position in the Big 12 standings.