Iowa State Basketball Preview: We’re Talkin’ Alcorn State (unfortunately)

Last Time Out

Iowa State left a final great impression in the Players’ Era, defeating Syracuse 95-64 (the same Syracuse team that just beat Tennessee). The Cyclones outscored Syracuse 60-30 in the second half, after leading by just one point at halftime. Iowa State shot 59% from the field, 45% from 3PT, and committed just eight turnovers. Toure dropped 19 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals, and knocked down 2 three-pointers. Milan led the team in scoring with 24 points and got the first in-game dunk of his career.

About Alcorn State

The most well-known thing about Alcorn State probably that Steve McNair is an alumni. Donald Driver is another fun name who is also an alumni.

They are 1-8 on the season, with the lone win coming against Indiana State. Notably, they gave up 108 points to Florida State and lost to Minnesota by 45 points. Per KenPom, they are ranked 330th overall out of the 365 total teams.

Player to Watch

Junior Shane Lancaster is the leading scorer at Alcorn State. He averages 10.9 points and shoots 50% from the field and 52.9% from deep. Against South Alabama, Lancaster dropped 25 points in their six-point loss. Tycen McDaniels, a junior, is their next leading scorer at 9.4 points, as he also averages 4.4 rebounds a game. He bad 12 points and 10 rebounds in their only win of the season vs Indiana State.

Pick 3

1 – Iowa State forces 20+ turnovers

2 – Jamarion Batemon scores 12+ points

3 – Cade Kelderman hits a 3

Prediction

I mean, this is a tough sandwich spot. Coming off the success in the Players’ Era and right before the matchup with Purdue, this could be a major problem for Iowa State tonight! I kinda think Alcorn State sneaks this one out……okay I’m kidding I’m kidding! There might be a bit of a sleepwalk with the spot, but Iowa State will handle this team easily. Hopefully, Bateman, Nelson, and others who are still trying to build consistent confidence in their shooting get some good looks today. Besides that, just pray for Alcorn State, because these boys are going to be in for a long night.

Iowa State: 92

Stonehill: 59

Game Notes

The Matchup: Alcorn State (1-8, 0-0 SWAC) at #16 Iowa State (7-0, 0-0 Big 12)

Where: Hilton Coliseum (14,267)

When: Wednesday, December 3th, 7:00pm

Spread: Iowa State -41.5 | O/U 151.5

Radio: Cyclone Radio Network/Varsity Radio App Talent: John Walters (PxP), Eric Heft (Analyst)

TV: ESPN+

Live Stats: Cyclonestats.com