Iowa State women’s basketball head coach Bill Fennelly was still reveling in his team’s thrilling last-second victory over Drake when his grandson, Will, approached him with news of South Carolina’s recent defeat against UCLA. “Grandpa, you’re in trouble,” Will remarked, referring to how the now 5th-ranked Gamecocks might be in a fierce mood following their first loss of the season.
Iowa State is slated to face South Carolina on Thursday at the Elevance Health Women’s Fort Myers Tip-Off in Florida. This game poses a considerable challenge for the Cyclones, especially following the Gamecocks’ strong performance last season, which included a national championship and an astonishing 43-game winning streak, now broken by UCLA.
Despite the uphill battle against a formidable opponent many consider one of the nation’s best, Iowa State players are eagerly anticipating the matchup. Point guard Emily Ryan expressed enthusiasm about facing such a high-caliber team, indicating the Cyclones’ readiness to take on the challenge.
Iowa State’s non-conference schedule features several tough opponents, including a matchup against UConn on December 17. Fennelly shared a light-hearted moment, recalling how he had agreed to play UConn, unaware that South Carolina would also be included in the Fort Myers Tip-Off lineup.
The upcoming clash offers a significant opportunity for Iowa State to assess their progress and competitive standing, especially after a promising previous season where they reached the Big 12 Conference title game. The game is not only a critical test for the Cyclones but also a chance to showcase their program on a larger platform, as it will be broadcast on FOX.
This matchup against the Gamecocks will vividly illustrate Iowa State’s capabilities and offer valuable insights moving forward in the season. Players like post player Audi Crooks are keen on using this high-stakes game to highlight the potential of Iowa State basketball.
Overall, while the task ahead is daunting, it serves as an exciting opportunity for the Cyclones to challenge themselves and potentially propel their confidence for the rest of the season. With the bright lights of national television illuminating the court, Iowa State aims to prove they possess the talent and determination to compete at the highest level.
The upcoming game not only allows Iowa State to test itself against an elite opponent but also fosters hope and motivation for the team to strive for excellence.