The Iowa State Cyclones faced a tough defeat on Monday night, losing to the Auburn Tigers in a thrilling game that showcased both teams’ talents. The Cyclones led comfortably at halftime but struggled in the second half, where they were outscored 50-32. The decisive moment came when Johni Broome of Auburn scored a tip-in with just two seconds remaining, securing the win for his team.
Iowa State’s Keshon Gilbert shone with a notable performance, contributing 23 points and reaching a personal milestone by scoring his 1,000th career point. However, a critical turnover in the final seconds proved costly for the Cyclones. His teammate Curtis Jones also celebrated reaching 1,000 career points during the game, marking a memorable night for both players despite the loss.
The game turned during the second half, as Iowa State’s defense faltered—something Coach T.J. Otzelberger usually emphasizes. A particular foul drawn by Gilbert resulted in a flagrant-1 call that temporarily swung momentum back to Iowa State, tying the game at 77. However, they could not maintain their lead against Auburn, which capitalized on Iowa State’s struggles.
In the first half, Iowa State had a strong showing, leading 49-33 at the break, showcasing an effective offense that included balanced scoring from multiple players. However, as Auburn began to find its rhythm, Iowa State’s shooting percentage dipped significantly in the second half.
Looking ahead, the Cyclones now hold a record of 3-1 and will continue their journey in the Maui Invitational, facing the loser of the North Carolina and Dayton match. This loss, while disappointing, offers the Cyclones an opportunity to learn from their defensive lapses and regain momentum in their upcoming match.
In summary, despite a heartbreaking loss, the Cyclones displayed moments of brilliance, and the experience gained in facing top-tier competition like Auburn can only strengthen their resolve for the rest of the season. Fans can remain hopeful that the team will bounce back and show resilience in the coming games.