Texas Tech Defeats No. 3 Iowa State: A Thrilling Upset in Lubbock
The Texas Tech Red Raiders pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday, defeating the No. 3 ranked Iowa State Cyclones 82-71 in a thrilling game at the United Supermarkets Arena. This victory marked a significant statement for the Red Raiders, who have now won three of their last four games and continue to climb the Big 12 standings.
A Battle From the Start
The game was a back-and-forth affair from the tip-off. Both teams came out firing, with Iowa State's potent offense trading baskets with Texas Tech's aggressive defense. The Cyclones were led by Tyrese Hunter, who poured in 15 points in the first half, showcasing his impressive playmaking skills. However, the Red Raiders countered with Kevin Obanor, who was a dominant force in the paint, scoring 11 points and grabbing six rebounds before halftime.
The Red Raiders' Surge
The momentum shifted in the second half, as Texas Tech stepped up their defensive intensity. They forced Iowa State into 10 turnovers in the final 20 minutes, while their own offense started clicking. Terrence Shannon Jr. ignited the crowd with his explosive drives to the basket, finishing the game with 20 points. The Red Raiders also benefited from the hot shooting of Myron Gardner, who scored 13 points off the bench, including three crucial three-pointers.
A Statement Win for Texas Tech
The win over Iowa State is a significant boost for Texas Tech's confidence. It proves they can compete with the top teams in the Big 12 and shows their potential to make a deep run in the conference tournament. Head Coach Mark Adams praised his team's effort, emphasizing the importance of playing with energy and focus.
Key Takeaways
- Texas Tech's Defense Was Crucial: The Red Raiders forced Iowa State into a high number of turnovers and stifled their offensive rhythm, especially in the second half.
- Obanor's Dominance Inside: Kevin Obanor's inside presence was a major factor in Texas Tech's victory. He finished the game with 23 points and 11 rebounds, proving his ability to control the paint.
- Iowa State Struggled from Beyond the Arc: The Cyclones shot just 27% from three-point range, a stark contrast to their usual high-scoring ways. This highlights the impact of Texas Tech's defensive strategy.
This victory will surely give the Texas Tech Red Raiders a much-needed confidence boost as they continue their journey through the tough Big 12 conference.
Keywords: Texas Tech, Iowa State, Big 12, basketball, college basketball, upset, Kevin Obanor, Terrence Shannon Jr, Mark Adams, Tyrese Hunter, Myron Gardner