Iowa State women’s basketball coach Bill Fennelly was in high spirits after his team’s thrilling last-minute victory over Drake at Hilton Coliseum when he received a playful warning from his grandson, Will. Will had been following the outcome of a matchup between No. 5 UCLA and South Carolina, which resulted in the Gamecocks’ first loss of the season. “Grandpa, you’re in trouble,” Will said, alluding to South Carolina’s potential for a fierce comeback. Fennelly’s team will face the determined Gamecocks this Thursday during the Elevance Health Women’s Fort Myers Tip-Off in Fort Myers, Florida.
He acknowledged the challenge that awaits Iowa State (5-1) against one of the top programs in the country. After an undefeated season that culminated in a national championship, South Carolina began this year with five consecutive wins, pushing their overall winning streak to 43 games before it was halted by UCLA.
Despite the daunting task, Iowa State players are eager for the opportunity. Point guard Emily Ryan expressed excitement, noting that this matchup can be approached with enthusiasm rather than fear. The Cyclones’ non-conference schedule is already filled with tough opponents, including a future showdown against UConn on Dec. 17.
Fennelly humorously recounted how he received a suggestion from legendary UConn coach Geno Auriemma to schedule a game with his team, not realizing that South Carolina would also be participating in the Fort Myers Tip-Off. This matchup, while unexpected, presents a significant opportunity for Iowa State to test its mettle.
Considered a valuable chance for national exposure, Fennelly views the game as a “two-hour infomercial” for the school, allowing Iowa State to showcase its team on a prominent platform. The matchup against South Carolina will serve as a crucial indicator of the Cyclones’ abilities, especially following last season’s success, which included reaching the Big 12 Conference Tournament title game.
Players are looking forward to the challenge, with post player Audi Crooks expressing optimism about learning valuable lessons from the game. The encounter is anticipated to be a defining moment for Iowa State as they strive to establish themselves among the nation’s elite teams.
In summary, the upcoming game against South Carolina represents not just a test for Iowa State, but also a chance for growth and visibility in women’s college basketball. It highlights the resilience and ambition of the Cyclones, as they prepare to face a powerhouse opponent head-on.