Cyclones Make Remarkable Comeback, but Bulldogs Prevail with 85-73 Victory
In a thrilling and intense battle between the Iowa State Cyclones and the Drake Bulldogs, it was the Bulldogs who emerged victorious with a final score of 85-73. The game, held at the Knapp Center in Des Moines, saw both teams giving it their all and putting on a spectacular show for the passionate crowd of 4,203 spectators.
The Drake Bulldogs started off strong, utilizing a stunning 19-0 run in the second quarter to take a commanding 20-point lead. However, the Cyclones refused to back down and launched an impressive comeback, eventually taking the lead 67-65 with just over five minutes left in the game. The tension in the arena was palpable, and the crowd could sense a dramatic finish in the making.
But it was the experience and maturity of the Drake Bulldogs that ultimately proved to be the difference-maker. With a starting lineup consisting of three seniors and two juniors, they showed composure and a will to win in the face of adversity. Drake’s Grace Berg, a sixth-year senior, led the charge with 22 points, including four three-pointers.
Iowa State, on the other hand, had a relatively young lineup with two seniors, one junior, and two freshmen. Four of their starting five were new to head coach Bill Fennelly’s program. Despite their youth and lack of experience, the Cyclones fought valiantly. Freshman center Audi Crooks had a standout performance, scoring a career-high 23 points, while senior transfer guard Hannah Belanger added 11 points, including three three-pointers.
The game was a tale of two halves. The Bulldogs dominated the second quarter, holding the Cyclones scoreless from the field and capitalizing on their mistakes, resulting in a 38-20 halftime lead. However, Iowa State came out firing in the second half, shooting 5-for-8 from beyond the arc in the third quarter to close the gap.
Although the Cyclones made a remarkable effort to turn the tide in their favor, the Bulldogs had the final say. With a late surge in the closing minutes of the game, Drake outscored Iowa State 20-6 to secure the victory.
Drake’s senior Taylor McAulay was instrumental in their triumph, scoring a career-high 27 points, including six three-pointers. McAulay expressed the team’s motivation to win against their intrastate rivals, stating that there was an extra edge to their performance that day.
For the Cyclones, it was a learning experience. Coach Fennelly acknowledged that his team is still adapting to the challenges posed by more experienced opponents. He praised his team’s effort and commitment, despite the loss, and highlighted the need for consistency and growth as the season progresses.
The defeat ends a modest two-game win streak for the Cyclones in the intrastate series against the Bulldogs. Nevertheless, both teams displayed their abilities and showcased their potential in this intense battle.
As the season unfolds, Iowa State will continue to gain valuable experience and find their rhythm. Meanwhile, the Drake Bulldogs will build on their early successes and strive for continued dominance on the court. This matchup between the Cyclones and the Bulldogs is bound to be one to watch in the future, as both teams aim to make their mark in college basketball.
