Exciting NCAA Tournament Opener: Iowa State Defeats Princeton
SOUTH BEND, Ind. — In a thrilling NCAA Tournament opener, Iowa State’s Audi Crooks shone brightly, scoring 12 of her total 27 points in the final quarter. Addy Brown contributed a remarkable 22 points, helping Iowa State overcome a daunting 15-point deficit in the second half to secure a 68-63 victory against Princeton on Wednesday evening.
This first-round triumph for the Cyclones (23-11), both teams labeled as 11-seeds, propels them into a matchup with sixth-seeded Michigan this Friday. The victory also marked a significant milestone for coach Bill Fennelly, who celebrated his 800th win, placing him third among active coaches in women’s basketball.
Crooks and Brown Lead the Charge
Crooks, recently named to The Associated Press All-America third team, was a dominant force in the paint, leading her team to an impressive 46-28 edge in that area. Iowa State’s shooting stats were equally impressive, making 12 of 21 attempts. Brown showcased her versatility, achieving 9 of 16 from the field, along with eight assists and seven rebounds. Emily Ryan contributed significantly as well, tying the Big 12 career assists record with six assists, bringing her total to 988.
Princeton’s Performance
On the opposing side, Princeton (21-8) saw Fadima Tall lead her team with 19 points, supported by Ashley Chea who added 15, although she was scoreless in the second half. Skye Belker and Parker Hill contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively, with Hill also grabbing 12 rebounds. Both teams were making their sixth consecutive tournaments appearances.
Turning Point
After an eventful match, the final period showcased a back-and-forth scoring dynamic, with the Cyclones maintaining a lead fluctuating between four and seven points. The decisive moment came when Belker’s 3-point attempt missed with just nine seconds left; Crooks secured the rebound to clinch the victory.
Game Summary
Princeton started strong, taking a 15-point lead early in the second half, but then struggled offensively, going eight minutes without a field goal. The Cyclones capitalized on this, shooting at an impressive 58% in the third quarter and outscoring Princeton 27-9 to take a 52-47 lead, propelled by Brown’s 11 points in that stretch. Princeton, however, closed the first half with a 14-0 run to lead 38-25.
Upcoming Matchups
BIRMINGHAM 3 – First Round
Friday, March 21
At South Bend, Ind.
Michigan (22-10) vs. Iowa State (23-11), 10:30 a.m. (ESPN2)
Notre Dame (26-5) vs. Stephen F. Austin (29-5), 1 p.m.
Final Stats
Iowa State 68, Princeton 63
PRINCETON (21-8): Hutcherson 2-7 2-2 6, Belker 4-17 1-2 11, Chea 6-15 0-0 15, Tall 6-15 7-9 19, Hill 5-7 0-0 10. TOTALS: 24-67 10-13 63.
IOWA STATE (23-11): Jackson 1-6 0-0 3, Ryan 4-11 1-1 9, Joens 2-2 0-0 5, Brown 9-16 2-2 22, Crooks 12-21 3-4 27. TOTALS: 29-62 6-7 68.
Quarter Scores:
PRINCETON: 11 27 9 16 — 63
IOWA STATE: 18 7 27 16 — 68
3-Point Shooting: Princeton 5-19, Iowa State 4-13.
Rebounds: Both teams tied at 37.
Assists: Princeton 9, Iowa State 16.
Attendance: 819.
