The Iowa State women’s basketball team recently made headlines for a significant victory that came with a bittersweet twist. In a game against Texas Tech at Hilton Coliseum, the Cyclones secured a strong win, defeating their opponents 71-58, but not without a notable achievement slipping through their fingers. This match marked the end of their remarkable 30-year streak of scoring at least one three-pointer in every game, a record that stood tall for 945 consecutive games since it began on February 19, 1995.
The End of an Era
The game on Tuesday evening brought unexpected emotions for Cyclones fans as they watched the team struggle to sink a single three-pointer, going 0 for 7 from beyond the arc. Although the absence of a 3-pointer was a first for them in almost three decades, fans were still delighted by the overall performance strengthening their position in the Big 12 conference.
A Focus on Inside Scoring
As Coach Bill Fennelly emphasized post-game, the focus was not on maintaining the three-point streak but rather on scoring from inside the paint. This strategy proved successful, resulting in 50 points scored in the paint. Audi Crooks was a standout player, pouring in 28 points, while Addy Brown contributed significantly with 21 points. The team’s strong inside game overshadowed the end of the three-point record, showcasing their adaptability and skill in various playing styles.
The Historic Streak
To understand the magnitude of the streak, let’s look back at its impressive duration. This record began on February 19, 1995, when Tara Gunderson hit a three-pointer against Colorado. Over the years, the Cyclones developed a reputation for their shooting prowess, becoming one of the most feared teams in the NCAA. Even though the streak has come to an end, Iowa State remains optimistic, with Coach Fennelly’s leadership guiding the program through changing times.
Next Steps for Iowa State
The Cyclones are currently boasting a strong overall record of 13-6 and holding a 4-2 conference record. Their next challenge comes this Sunday when they face No. 20 West Virginia, a team that will test their resilience and commitment. The players are aware that this game will be pivotal as they continue to adjust their strategies post-streak.
What This Means for the Team
Ending such a long-standing streak does leave many questions about the future of Iowa State’s playing style and overall strategy. For now, the Cyclones express confidence in their ability to win games regardless of how the ball travels beyond the arc. The power of a strong offense and teamwork remains at the forefront of their game plan moving forward.
| Streak Details | Key Players |
|---|---|
| Started: February 19, 1995 | Audi Crooks – 28 Points |
| Length: 945 Games | Addy Brown – 21 Points |
| Ending Game: January 16, 2025 |
Looking Forward
As the Cyclones shift their focus from the past to the future, they are determined to create new records and achieve greater heights. While the loss of the 3-point streak adds an emotional note to their story, the team understands that victories, teamwork, and progress are what truly matter. With fresh games ahead, fans will surely be eager to support their favorite team through the season and cheer them on in their quest for success.