Iowa State women’s basketball delivered a commanding performance in their exhibition opener, dismantling Upper Iowa 90-32 at Hilton Coliseum on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The Cyclones showcased their depth and defensive intensity early, launching a 15-0 run to open the game and holding the Division II opponent scoreless for over four minutes. This aggressive start set the tone for a lopsided victory that highlighted the team’s readiness for the upcoming season.
Key Match Highlights & Tactical Analysis
The statistical breakdown reveals a balanced and efficient offensive attack, with four different players scoring in double figures. Tjasa Turksek led the charge with 16 points, anchoring a scoring explosion that saw Iowa State outscore Upper Iowa by nearly 60 points. The game served as a crucial platform for the program to evaluate its roster, as head coach Tara VanDerveer deployed ten new players who quickly found their rhythm and contributed significantly to the first-quarter surge.
Key takeaways from the exhibition include the immediate cohesion of the new recruiting class and the defensive discipline that stifled Upper Iowa’s offense. With the regular season opener against Grambling State scheduled for Nov. 2, the Cyclones enter the contest with high confidence after validating their new personnel. The 90-32 margin of victory signals a strong start for a team looking to establish dominance in the Big 12 Conference.
Source: Yahoo Sports
