The University of Arizona women’s basketball team is preparing to host Iowa State University on Saturday, Jan. 11, at 2 p.m. in McKale Center. Arizona (11-6, 2-2 in Big 12) is looking to bounce back after losing to Baylor in overtime 81-76 on Jan. 8.
The Iowa State Cyclones (11-6, 2-2 Big 12) enter their matchup against Arizona riding the momentum of an impressive 90-83 road victory over Arizona State on Jan. 8. The Cyclones showcased their offensive capability in Tempe, led by five players scoring in double figures and highlighted by sophomore Audi Crooks’ 20-point performance.
This will mark only the second-ever meeting between these programs, with Iowa State winning the first matchup 71-61 back in 1988.
Iowa State Stats
The Cyclones’ explosive offense averages 76.4 points per game and possesses a shooting percentage of 46.2%. A player to keep an eye on is Crooks, who has been an asset for the Cyclones, leading the team with 23.0 points and 7.8 rebounds per game while shooting 60.4% from the field.
Additionally, forward Addy Brown provides a strong complement with 13.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, while veteran guard Emily Ryan runs the offense with 9.4 points and 6.6 assists per contest while shooting an astounding 94.3% from the free-throw line.
While facing ASU, the Cyclones scored 10 three-pointers which is the fifth time this season they’ve reached double digits in deep shots. The Cyclones excel beyond the arc, knocking down 8.3 three-pointers per game, making them a challenge for Arizona’s defense to contain.
Arizona Stats
Arizona comes into the game averaging 70.8 points per game while holding opponents to just 60.6, thanks to a defense that thrives on creating turnovers. The Wildcats force an average of 20.5 turnovers per game and generate 11.2 steals per contest, making them a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Jada Williams has been a standout in terms of forcing turnovers and leading in steals. Williams averages 1.9 steals per game, and her defensive presence plays a significant role in the Wildcats’ ability to create turnovers. Williams leads the team in minutes (29.8 per game) and contributes 12.0 points, 2.9 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game.
Leading the way for Arizona is sophomore center Breya Cunningham, who has been dominant in the post with 12.8 points and 7.1 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 65.7% from the field.
The key to this game lies in the Wildcats’ ability to disrupt Iowa State’s offensive rhythm. Arizona’s defense thrives on forcing mistakes, and they will need to keep Crooks and Brown in check while challenging Iowa State’s three-point shooters. Rebounding will also play a significant role, as Iowa State holds a slight edge in rebounding margin at a 4.4 average compared to Arizona’s 1.1.
With both teams evenly matched statistically and riding similar records, this game has all the makings of a nail-biter.
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