Iowa State Dominates Lipscomb: A March Madness Blowout!

In a stunning display of basketball prowess, the Iowa State Cyclones, a No. 3 seed, overwhelmed the No. 14 seed Lipscomb Bisons with an impressive score of 82-55 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on March 21, 2025. The victory not only marks a successful start for Iowa State in this year’s tournament but also showcases their potential as they advance deeper into March Madness.

From the opening tip-off, it was clear that Iowa State was in control. The Cyclones established a commanding lead early, showcasing their offensive strength and defensive tenacity. Milan Momcilovic, the standout player of the game, scored 20 points, with a staggering 17 points coming in the first half alone. His ability to dominate the court early on set the tone for the rest of the match, leaving the Bisons struggling to keep pace.

Iowa State’s performance was characterized by a strong offensive output, averaging 77.4 points over their last ten games leading up to the tournament. This consistency was evident as they executed their game plan flawlessly against Lipscomb. Curtis Jones also played a pivotal role, contributing 17 points to the Cyclones’ total, while Joshua Jefferson facilitated the offense effectively with 10 points and 8 assists.

The Cyclones’ defensive strategy was equally impressive, limiting Lipscomb’s scoring opportunities and controlling the game’s tempo. Lipscomb’s star player, Jacob Ognacevic, the Atlantic Sun Player of the Year, led his team with 18 points but struggled against Iowa State’s formidable defense. The Cyclones forced Lipscomb into 15 turnovers, a significant increase from their season average of 9.4 turnovers per game.

A pivotal moment in the game came during a 14-0 run by Iowa State that firmly shifted momentum in their favor. This surge not only demoralized Lipscomb but also highlighted the Cyclones’ physical advantage, as they dominated in the paint, outscoring their opponents 50-20 in that area. Lipscomb’s coach, Lennie Acuff, acknowledged the mismatch, stating, “Iowa State’s size and strength were overwhelming.”

The game, held at the Fiserv Forum, added to the excitement of March Madness, with fans witnessing a display of skill and teamwork from Iowa State. As the final buzzer sounded, it was evident that the Cyclones had not only secured a spot in the second round but had also generated optimism among fans and analysts regarding their potential in the tournament.

Looking ahead, Iowa State will face the winner of the matchup between Mississippi and North Carolina in the next round. This victory not only reflects Iowa State’s resilience but also builds on their strong season record of 25-9. The Cyclones’ performance against Lipscomb serves as a reminder of their capability to avoid upset scenarios, which are often prevalent in tournament play.

In conclusion, Iowa State’s decisive victory over Lipscomb is a testament to their hard work and determination. As they advance in the NCAA Tournament, fans are left hopeful for what lies ahead. With standout players like Milan Momcilovic leading the charge, the Cyclones are poised to make a significant impact in this year’s March Madness. The blend of offensive firepower and defensive strength showcased against Lipscomb has set a high bar for their future opponents, making Iowa State a team to watch as the tournament progresses.