In a powerful display of depth and defensive intensity, No. 5 Iowa State overwhelmed IU Indianapolis with an 87-52 victory on Monday night in Ames. The Cyclones had four players score in double figures, led by a brilliant 20-point performance from bench standout Curtis Jones. The win moves Iowa State to a perfect 3-0 on the season, showcasing why they are considered one of the top teams in the nation.
Jones’ Bench Spark Ignites Early Blowout
Curtis Jones provided an immediate offensive explosion off the bench, continuing his hot start to the season. He delivered his second consecutive 20-point game, proving to be a reliable and dynamic scoring option for the Cyclones.
His impact was felt most during a decisive 13-0 run in the first half. Jones drained three of his four three-pointers during this stretch, helping Iowa State build an insurmountable 27-5 lead just eight minutes into the contest. This early surge effectively put the game out of reach for the visiting Jaguars.
“I’m just trying to stay aggressive and play my role,” Jones said after the game. “When the team is clicking like this, it’s easy to find good shots.”
This performance marked Jones’ fourth 20-point game in his Iowa State career, signaling his growing confidence and importance within the team’s rotation.
Balanced Scoring and Defensive Pressure Overwhelm Jaguars
While Jones lit up the scoreboard, Iowa State’s victory was a complete team effort. The Cyclones’ success was built on balanced contributions and a suffocating defense that never allowed IU Indianapolis to find a rhythm.
Tamin Lipsey was a major factor on both ends of the floor. He not only scored 17 points but also anchored the defense with five steals. His relentless pressure disrupted the Jaguars’ offense all night. “Tamin’s energy is contagious,” said head coach T.J. Otzelberger. “He sets the tone for us defensively, and that fuels everything we do on offense.”
The Cyclones’ well-rounded attack was on full display with multiple players making significant impacts.
- Curtis Jones: Led all scorers with 20 points off the bench.
- Tamin Lipsey: Contributed 17 points and a game-high 5 steals.
- Joshua Jefferson: Recorded his first double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
- Keshon Gilbert: Acted as the primary playmaker, adding 11 points and 8 assists.
This balanced approach, combined with a defense that forced 20 turnovers, made Iowa State nearly impossible to stop.
Jefferson’s Perfect Night Cements Interior Presence
Saint Mary’s transfer Joshua Jefferson had his best game as a Cyclone, delivering a highly efficient and impactful performance. He recorded his first double-double for the team, scoring 16 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
Jefferson was flawless from the floor, finishing a perfect 7-of-7 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free-throw line. His ability to control the glass limited second-chance points for the Jaguars and established a strong interior presence for Iowa State.
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curtis Jones | 20 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Tamin Lipsey | 17 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
| Joshua Jefferson | 16 | 10 | 1 | 1 |
| Keshon Gilbert | 11 | 4 | 8 | 2 |
His seamless integration into the system has given the Cyclones another vital weapon as they head into a tougher part of their schedule.
Uphill Battle for IU Indianapolis Continues
The Jaguars faced a difficult challenge from the opening tip. Iowa State’s elite defense held them to just five points in the first eight minutes of the game, setting a tone that IU Indianapolis could not overcome.
Paul Zilinskas was the only consistent offensive threat for the Jaguars, finishing with a team-high 16 points. The rest of the team struggled to find openings against the Cyclones’ defensive pressure.
This loss drops IU Indianapolis to 0-17 all-time against ranked opponents, highlighting the significant gap they face when playing top-tier programs.
What This Win Means for the Cyclones
With a 3-0 start, Iowa State is building serious momentum. The commanding win over IU Indianapolis demonstrated that the team has multiple ways to win games, whether through hot shooting, defensive tenacity, or a balanced offensive attack.
The emergence of players like Jones and Jefferson provides crucial depth that will be essential as the competition level increases. Having four players score in double figures for the second time this season is a positive sign for the team’s chemistry and offensive versatility. The Cyclones look poised and ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
