Last Time Out

Iowa State had a short Big 12 Tournament. Texas has been a tough matchup all season for the Cyclones with their height and athleticism. The Cyclones tried to offset that size in a 2-3 zone, but Texas was still able to get in deep and get points from their star, Charli Collier. It was a close game, and even after Collier fouled out, the Cyclones stayed in a 2-3 which seemed to be their downfall on slow rotations.

About Michigan State

Their has to be some magnet in March that attracts these two teams together come tournament time. The 2000 Elite 8 matchup in the men’s tournament, and the Alison Lacey 3 point game in 2009. Michigan State, this year, is 15-8 and finished 7th in the Big 10. Michigan State comes in 3-1 in their last four, losing their sole Big 10 tournament game to Iowa. One of those wins was against Indiana, who is a 4 seed in this year’s tournament.

Opponent Player to Watch

Without a doubt it’s Nia Clouden. She’s able to put this team on her back, and score enough to keep the Spartans in it. She’s had three 30 point games, and is coming off a 30 point effort against Iowa. If Iowa State can make the game hard for Clouden, I like their chances to move on first round.

What Will Happen

I like Iowa State for a couple reasons. Michigan State’s best player is a guard, not a big. Also, the tournament, this year especially, is super chalky. The higher seed went 16-0 yesterday. It is the inverse of the men’s tournament. There is a reason Iowa State is the 7 and Michigan State is the 10. I’m not saying it’s a forgone conclusion, but I like our chances.

Iowa State- 74

Michigan State- 62

Pick 3

The Cyclones shoot 35% from 3

Michigan State comes out of the gate HOT

Cyclones never lose the lead in the second half

Game Notes

The Matchup: Iowa State (16-10, 12-7 Big 12) vs Michigan State (17-8, 11-7 Big 12)

Where: Alamodome - San Antonio, Texas

When: Monday, March 22, 5:00 PM (CST)

TV: ESPN

Radio: Cyclone Radio Network/Learfield Talent: Noah Wolf, Jamie Steyer

Live Stats: cyclonestats.com