The Iowa State men’s basketball team faced a heartbreaking defeat against Auburn in the Maui Invitational, losing 79-77 in a game that proved to be both intense and memorable. In a dramatic second half, the Cyclones were outscored 50-32, allowing Auburn to complete a remarkable comeback. A last-second tip-in from Johni Broome sealed the win for the Tigers, leaving Iowa State fans feeling disappointed.
Keshon Gilbert had a standout performance for Iowa State, leading the team with 23 points and reaching a milestone of 1,000 career points alongside teammate Curtis Jones. Gilbert’s pivotal defensive play earned him a flagrant foul that temporarily shifted momentum, tying the game late in the second half. However, a critical turnover from Gilbert in the final moments proved costly.
Iowa State, under the leadership of head coach T.J. Otzelberger, showed early promise, leading by as much as 16 points at halftime. The Cyclones’ strong first half saw impressive contributions from various players, showcasing their depth and skill. Meanwhile, Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazara had a notable performance, particularly in the second half where he scored consistently.
Despite the loss, the Cyclones maintain a solid record of 3-1 and will look to rebound in their next game against the North Carolina-Dayton loser on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. CT. This experience, while a tough one to swallow, can serve as a valuable lesson for the young squad, potentially strengthening their resolve as they continue their season.
Overall, while the game turned out unfavorable for Iowa State, the team demonstrated resilience and promise that could bode well for the upcoming matches. The loss might fuel a sense of determination among the Cyclones to bounce back and refine their performance moving forward.