Texas Tech Upsets No. 3 Iowa State in a Thrilling Showdown
Lubbock, Texas – Texas Tech pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday, defeating the No. 3 ranked Iowa State Cyclones 75-72 in a hard-fought battle at the United Supermarkets Arena. The Red Raiders, who entered the game as 10-point underdogs, displayed grit and determination throughout the game, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.
A Tightly Contested Matchup
The game was a back-and-forth affair from the opening tip. Both teams showcased their offensive prowess, with Iowa State's star guard Tyrese Hunter leading the Cyclones' charge and Kevin Obanor providing a dominant presence in the paint for Texas Tech.
The Red Raiders were able to create separation late in the second half, taking a 59-52 lead heading into the final 10 minutes. However, Iowa State, fueled by the scoring of Gabe Kalscheur, clawed their way back into the game, tying the score at 72 with just over a minute left.
The Deciding Moment
In a crucial moment, Texas Tech's Terrence Shannon Jr. stepped up, knocking down a crucial three-pointer with 45 seconds remaining. The Cyclones had one last chance to tie the game, but their final shot fell short, sealing the upset victory for the Red Raiders.
Key Players
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (Texas Tech): Led the Red Raiders with 23 points, including the game-winning three-pointer. He also added 5 assists and 4 rebounds.
- Kevin Obanor (Texas Tech): Dominated the paint, recording a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.
- Tyrese Hunter (Iowa State): Scored a team-high 20 points for the Cyclones, adding 7 assists and 5 rebounds.
- Gabe Kalscheur (Iowa State): Provided a much-needed scoring spark, contributing 19 points off the bench for the Cyclones.
What This Means for Both Teams
This upset victory is a significant boost for Texas Tech's NCAA Tournament hopes. They now have a 13-8 overall record and a 3-5 record in the Big 12, proving they can compete with the top teams in the conference. For Iowa State, the loss is a setback but doesn't derail their season. They remain a top-ranked team with a strong overall record.
This game will be remembered as a classic Big 12 showdown, showcasing the competitive nature of the conference and highlighting the talent of both Texas Tech and Iowa State. As the season continues, both teams will look to build upon this experience and make a strong push for the NCAA Tournament.