What's Happening?
The Cincinnati Bearcats women's basketball team achieved a significant victory by defeating No. 11 Iowa State 71-63. This marks Cincinnati's first win over a ranked team in nearly 15 years, with their
last such victory occurring in 2011 against Marquette. Mya Perry led the Bearcats with 26 points, shooting 10-of-14 from the field and 4-of-6 from three-point range. Caliyah DeVillasee and Joya Crawford contributed 13 and 10 points, respectively. The Bearcats capitalized on a strong fourth quarter, outscoring Iowa State 15-7 to secure an 11-point lead. Despite a strong performance from Iowa State's Audi Crooks, who scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, the Cyclones were unable to overcome Cincinnati's momentum. The Bearcats also dominated the boards, outrebounding Iowa State 44-30.
Why It's Important?
This victory is a milestone for the Cincinnati women's basketball program, highlighting their potential to compete against top-ranked teams. It breaks a long-standing drought of wins against ranked opponents, potentially boosting the team's confidence and morale. For Iowa State, the loss is a setback, ending their impressive 14-game winning streak. The game also underscores the competitive nature of women's college basketball, where upsets can significantly impact team rankings and morale. Cincinnati's win may influence their standing in the Big 12 Conference and could have implications for their postseason aspirations.
What's Next?
Following this victory, Cincinnati will face No. 17 Texas Tech, presenting another opportunity to challenge a ranked opponent and further establish their presence in the conference. Iowa State will look to rebound as they host West Virginia, aiming to regain their winning form. Both teams will need to strategize and adjust to maintain or improve their standings in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
