MANHATTAN, Kan. — On Sunday afternoon, Kansas State took the floor in their iconic Jack Hartman era lavender jerseys, but the celebration of tradition could not mask a lopsided reality on the court.
In
a matchup marking the first time in 104 years that these two programs will not play a traditional home and home series, No. 8 Iowa State (20-2, 7-2 Big 12) made sure their only trip to the Little Apple was a definitive statement, dismantling the Wildcats 95-61.
The Heise Spark
The tone was set by a massive first half from Nate Heise. The redshirt senior entered the game averaging 4.8 points per game while shooting 25 percent from beyond the arc. However, Heise single handedly sparked the run that defined the afternoon.
Heise exploded for 11 first half points, helping the Cyclones build a staggering lead that reached nearly 30 points before the intermission. While he shifted into a facilitator role in the second half, his decision making remained a highlight of the blowout, including a crisp no-look pass to Joshua Jefferson for a corner three.
Statistical Domination
The efficiency discrepancy between the two squads was jarring from the opening tip. Iowa State finished the afternoon shooting 55 percent from the field and a blistering 51.9 percent from three point range.
In contrast, a depleted Kansas State roster missing three starters struggled to find any rhythm, shooting just 40.3 percent overall and 30.4 percent from deep.
The physical gap was most apparent on the glass. Iowa State completely controlled the boards, pulling down 40 rebounds to 25 for Kansas State. This dominance, combined with the hot shooting, allowed the Cyclones to dictate every facet of the game and silence the Bramlage Coliseum crowd early.
The Big Picture
By the time the final buzzer sounded, the lavender out was a distant memory. Iowa State found offensive contributions from all over the floor as Milan Momcilovic and Killyan Toure joined Heise, Jefferson, and Tamin Lipsey in double figures. With the victory, the Cyclones remain firmly near the top of the Big 12 standings as they prepare to head back to Ames.
Up Next
The Cyclones return to Hilton Coliseum to host Baylor on Saturday, Feb. 7. Tip off is scheduled for 1 p.m.
