Iowa State Edges Tulsa 80-78

Has there been a Cyclone more impressive so far than Nick Weiler-Babb? After a somewhat limited offensive role last season, the junior has been in scorching form to start this season, flirting with a triple double for the second game in a row. After 7 first half rebounds, NWB finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists.

Cameron Lard followed his debut double-dilly with 3 more blocks in a dominant defensive performance before foul trouble limited his second half playing time.

Finally, Jakolby Long played his best game as a Cyclone, hitting 4 first half three pointers on the way to a 17 point performance. Steve Prohm repeatedly mentioned the progress Long made throughout the summer, and we’re starting to see it show. So far this season, he’s shown the potential to be a good spark off the bench, with the ability to score from anywhere and defend pretty much any guard or wing player.

After opening up a 13 point lead early in the second half, Iowa State got a bit stagnant offensively, allowing Tulsa to creep back to within two, before Donovan Jackson hit a big three to stop the bleeding. From there, Weiler-Babb and Jakolby long continued to hit big shots to keep the Golden Hurricane at bay.

Sunday, Iowa State will meet Boise State in the final in what should be a challenging, but winnable matchup.