Iowa State’s Stunning Upset: A Sign of Shifting Power in College Basketball?
AMES, Iowa – In a game that crackled with intensity, No. 6 Iowa State delivered a stunning 70-67 victory over previously undefeated and No. 2 ranked Houston on Monday night. The win, fueled by a late-game surge and a clutch 3-pointer from Nate Heise, wasn’t just a win; it was a statement.
Heise’s Heroics and a Family Affair
Nate Heise’s go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:17 remaining proved to be the decisive moment. But the story extends beyond the court. Hours before his game-winning shot, Heise’s sister, Taylor Heise, scored a goal for the U.S. Women’s Olympic hockey team in their 5-0 win over Sweden. The sibling success story added an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling evening.
Closing Strong: The Cyclones’ 17-4 Run
Iowa State’s victory wasn’t built on a dominant first half, but on a relentless closing run. Trailing for much of the second half, the Cyclones unleashed a 17-4 surge to overcome the Cougars. This ability to perform under pressure, demonstrated again after defeating No. 8 Kansas 74-56 on Saturday, signals a growing resilience within the team.
Big 12 Implications and Houston’s First Loss
The loss snapped Houston’s six-game winning streak and tightened the race for the Big 12 title. The Cougars now hold just a half-game lead over No. 4 Arizona, setting up a crucial matchup this Saturday. Iowa State, meanwhile, is a game behind Houston, positioning themselves as serious contenders.
Key Performances and Final Moments
Joshua Jefferson led Iowa State with 12 points, while Heise and Blake Buchanan contributed 11 and 10 points respectively. For Houston, Kingston Flemings topped the scoring charts with 22 points, but the Cougars struggled to maintain their offensive momentum in the face of Iowa State’s defensive pressure.
The final seconds were a whirlwind. After Heise’s 3-pointer, Houston had opportunities to tie or take the lead, but a shot clock violation and a missed shot kept them at bay. A subsequent foul and a missed free throw by Buchanan were followed by a crucial offensive rebound from Tamin Lipsey, setting up a final foul and a made free throw by Jefferson to seal the victory.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?
Houston will look to rebound against No. 4 Arizona on Saturday. Iowa State faces a challenging road game at No. 23 BYU, as well on Saturday. Both games will be pivotal in shaping the Big 12 standings.
Did You Know?
Iowa State’s win over Houston marked their second top-10 victory in just three days, showcasing their ability to compete with the nation’s elite programs.
FAQ
Q: Who scored the winning 3-pointer for Iowa State?
A: Nate Heise.
Q: What is Iowa State’s record now?
A: 23-3, 10-3.
Q: What is Houston’s record now?
A: 23-3, 11-2.
Q: Where will Iowa State play their next game?
A: At No. 23 BYU.
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: Iowa State 70, Houston 67.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Nate Heise. His performance against Houston suggests he’s capable of stepping up in crucial moments, making him a player to watch for the remainder of the season.
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