The Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball team has clinched its 24th NCAA Tournament berth and will enter as the No. 3 seed in the South Region. They are set to face the No. 14 seed Lipscomb Bisons on Friday, March 21, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Tip-off is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. ET, with TNT broadcasting the game live. Check out here the best March Madness betting promos.
Iowa State’s Season Performance and Key Players
Under the guidance of Head Coach T.J. Otzelberger, in his fourth season, the Cyclones have compiled a solid 24-9 record, including 13-7 in Big 12 play. Otzelberger has made history as the first coach in Iowa State’s program to guide the team to the NCAA Tournament in each of his first four seasons. His ability to consistently lead the Cyclones to March Madness speaks volumes about his coaching acumen and player development.
Four Cyclones received recognition from Big 12 coaches for their contributions:
- Curtis Jones: Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year; All-Big 12 First Team selection.
- Joshua Jefferson: All-Big 12 Second Team and All-Newcomer Team honoree.
- Tamin Lipsey: Named to the All-Big 12 Third Team and All-Defensive Team.
- Keshon Gilbert: Earned a spot on the All-Big 12 Third Team.
Iowa State finished their Big 12 season strong, but they suffered a close 96-92 defeat to BYU in the Big 12 Tournament quarterfinals. The Cyclones, however, have demonstrated resilience in tournament play, having reached the Sweet 16 last season before a narrow loss to Illinois.
Iowa State’s Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the Cyclones’ biggest strengths this season has been their balanced attack. They are an efficient offensive team with multiple scoring threats, led by Curtis Jones, who averages 17.1 points per game. Their ability to control the boards and limit turnovers has also been a key factor in their success.
However, Iowa State has struggled at times with defensive consistency, particularly against teams that can shoot well from beyond the arc. Lipscomb, which averages nearly 10 three-pointers per game, could pose a challenge if they get hot from long range.
Iowa State’s Key Statistics
- Points Per Game: 80.4
- Points Allowed Per Game: 68.1
- Average Rebounds: 8.8
- Three-Pointers Made: 7.7
- Assists Per Game: 15.0
- Turnovers Per Game: 11.5
Key Player to Watch: Curtis Jones
- Points: 17.1
- Rebounds: 4.3
- Assists: 2.3
- Steals: 1.2
- Three-Pointers Made: 2.6
Lipscomb’s Season Performance and Key Players
The Lipscomb Bisons enter the NCAA Tournament with a 25-9 record, having secured the Atlantic Sun Tournament title and an automatic tournament bid. The Bisons finished with a strong 14-4 conference record and have won 11 of their last 12 games, making them a formidable lower-seeded opponent.
Lipscomb’s offense revolves around Jacob Ognacevic, who is averaging 20.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. His ability to score both inside and out makes him a difficult matchup for Iowa State’s defense. Lipscomb also benefits from strong guard play, particularly from Joe Anderson, who leads the team in assists (3.9) and steals (2.3) per game.
Lipscomb’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Lipscomb is a high-scoring team that thrives in an up-tempo style. They shoot well from beyond the arc and can capitalize on defensive lapses. However, their biggest challenge against Iowa State will be their defense. The Bisons allow 67.3 points per game, which is respectable, but they have struggled at times against high-caliber opponents.
Their rebounding numbers are also a concern, as they average only 7.0 rebounds per game compared to Iowa State’s 8.8. If they get outmatched on the boards, it will limit their ability to generate second-chance opportunities.
Lipscomb’s Key Statistics
- Points Per Game: 79.3
- Points Allowed Per Game: 67.3
- Average Rebounds: 7.0
- Three-Pointers Made: 9.9
- Assists Per Game: 15.1
- Turnovers Per Game: 9.1
Key Player to Watch: Jacob Ognacevic
- Points: 20.1
- Rebounds: 8.1
- Assists: 1.4
- Three-Pointers Made: 1.4
Betting Insights and Predictions
Current Betting Lines
- Point Spread: Iowa State favored by 13.5 points
- Over/Under: 143.5 total points
- Moneyline: Iowa State -1205 | Lipscomb +750
Predictions
- Against the Spread (ATS): Lipscomb is expected to cover the +13.5 point spread.
- Over/Under (OU): The total points are projected to exceed 143.5.
- Final Score Prediction: Iowa State 80, Lipscomb 67.
Iowa State vs. Lipscomb: Matchup Analysis
While Iowa State enters the tournament as the higher seed, Lipscomb is a battle-tested squad coming off a conference tournament victory. Iowa State’s ability to control the game through its defensive efforts and transition offense will be crucial in securing a comfortable win. The Cyclones will need to contain Ognacevic, who has been a dominant scorer and rebounder for the Bisons.
Additionally, Lipscomb’s proficiency in three-point shooting (9.9 per game) could pose a challenge if Iowa State’s perimeter defense falters. However, the Cyclones’ balanced attack and superior depth should ultimately give them the edge.
X-Factors for Both Teams
Iowa State X-Factors:
- Defensive Intensity: Can they disrupt Lipscomb’s rhythm?
- Rebounding Battle: Winning the boards will limit Lipscomb’s second-chance points.
- Three-Point Defense: Limiting Lipscomb’s outside shots could be a game-changer.
Lipscomb X-Factors:
- Hot Shooting: If they can shoot efficiently from deep, they can keep the game close.
- Turnover Margin: Keeping Iowa State from forcing turnovers will be key.
- Star Performance: Ognacevic needs a standout game to give Lipscomb a chance.
Final Thoughts
Iowa State is in a strong position to advance past Lipscomb and move on to the Round of 32, where they will face either No. 6 seed Ole Miss or the winner of the San Diego State vs. North Carolina matchup. For those looking to bet on the game, Lipscomb covering the spread and the over on total points could be solid wagers.
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