Iowa State Basketball Defeated By South Carolina

Iowa State’s basketball team was defeated by South Carolina 64-60 at the Barclays Center in New York. Mistakes, turnovers, and poor shooting frustrated the team and the fans from start to finish. What went wrong on Saturday, and what needs an urgent fix before conference play begins?

Iowa State had a terrible start with South Carolina by missing shots, losing control of the boards and committing unnecessary fouls (28 PFs committed). On the other hand, South Carolina took the ball over 20 times from their opponent, scored on most of their shots and had complete control of the boards by the time the game was finished.

The Cyclones were definitely not on their game. Iowa State was pressured by the Gamecocks defense all night long, making it hard for the Cyclones to generate any offensive. Iowa State finished the game with just 35.1 percent shooting from the field.

Another factor that contributed to the Iowa State loss was shooting just 1 of 18 from long range. It took 39 minutes before Naz Long finally scored the Cyclones first three point shot. Iowa State made just 19 of 33 free throws, allowed 13 turnovers and managed just eight assists during the contest.

The highlight of Iowa State’s first half was definitely Jameel McKay. He was constantly open inside for his teammates and finished the game with 15 points, which tied him with Dustin Hogue as the team’s leading scorer. Unfortunately for the Cyclones, South Carolina eventually closed him down in the second half.

If Iowa Sate intends to have a successful season, they need start out strong, pick up the pace, control the ball and play to their strengths. Maryland, Lamar, Oakland, Southern, and now, South Carolina – those were games that Iowa State started on the wrong foot.

Many sports writers agree that Iowa State needs quick turnaround with the Big 12 season about to begin. Iowa State can forget about ranking in the Top 10 if the Cyclones don’t improve their play. Hopefully, Iowa State will get their act together against Oklahoma State at the Hilton Coliseum on Tuesday night and return to form as a Big 12 basketball powerhouse.