Full Breakdown
Iowa State Cyclones Women's Basketball Achieves Historic Start
1/1/2026, 7:56:06 PM
Dominant Performance Against Houston
The No. 10 Iowa State Cyclones women's basketball team secured an 80-62 victory over the Houston Cougars on December 31, 2025, marking their 14th consecutive win and matching the best start in program history. Audi Crooks led the Cyclones with an impressive 35 points and 13 rebounds, achieving her fifth straight game with at least 30 points. Jada Williams contributed significantly with 16 points and a career-high 14 assists, showcasing her dual-threat capability as a scorer and playmaker.
Iowa State's victory was characterized by a strong offensive performance, particularly in the first half, where they shot 60% and built a 45-31 lead by halftime. The Cyclones capitalized on their size advantage, dominating points in the paint with a 52-24 margin. Despite an early challenge from Houston, which led 14-7 in the first quarter, Iowa State responded with a decisive 12-0 run to take control of the game.
Key Players and Contributions
Audi Crooks' performance not only highlighted her scoring ability but also extended her streak of double-digit scoring games to 80, the longest active streak in NCAA women's basketball. Jada Williams' ability to facilitate the offense was evident as she recorded her fifth double-double of the season. Other notable contributions came from Briana Peguero, who scored 14 points for Houston, and Jade Jones, who added 11 points off the bench.
Official Statements & Responses
Iowa State head coach Bill Fennelly acknowledged the team's performance, stating, “I don’t care who you play in this league, you go on the road and win by 18 points, that’s a good thing.” He emphasized the importance of Crooks in drawing defensive attention, which opened opportunities for other players to score.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Iowa State is set to host No. 22 Baylor on January 4, 2026. This matchup presents a significant challenge as the Cyclones aim to secure their place in history with a record-breaking start. The upcoming game will be crucial for maintaining momentum as they transition deeper into Big 12 play.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, Coach Fennelly noted areas for improvement, indicating that the team did not perform at their best overall. This sentiment reflects a common theme among successful teams, where maintaining high standards is essential for continued success.
Conclusion
With their latest win, the Iowa State Cyclones women's basketball team has not only matched a historic start but also demonstrated their potential to achieve even greater success this season. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the Cyclones remain a formidable force in the Big 12 Conference.
