No. 3 Iowa State, Arizona Soar Into Big 12 Showdown

The stage is set for a pivotal Big 12 matchup as No. 3 Iowa State takes on Arizona in Tucson on Monday night. Both teams enter the game on a hot streak, with the Cyclones riding a dominant second-half performance in their latest victory and Arizona surging after a slow start to the season.

Coaching Titans Meet

This showdown marks the first meeting between Iowa State’s T.J. Otzelberger and Arizona’s Tommy Lloyd since both became head coaches in 2021-22. Lloyd recently reached a career milestone, tying his former mentor, Gonzaga’s Mark Few, for the fastest to 100 wins among active coaches, achieving the feat in just 126 games. Meanwhile, Otzelberger continues to build a powerhouse at Iowa State, boasting an 87-37 record with the Cyclones.

Lloyd, now 101-26 at Arizona, downplayed the stakes of the game but acknowledged its significance.

Iowa State’s Dominance

The Cyclones (17-2, 7-1 Big 12) showcased their resilience in a 76-61 win over Arizona State on Saturday, overcoming a first-half deficit with a commanding 43-21 second half. Curtis Jones led the charge with a career-high 33 points, including five in a decisive 19-3 run to close the game. Joshua Jefferson added a double-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and four steals.

Jones emphasized the team’s aggressive approach: “I feel like I’m always looking to be that aggressive at all times, whether we’re struggling or not.”

Arizona’s Revival

Arizona (13-6, 7-1 Big 12) has rebounded from a rocky 4-5 start to win nine of their last 10 games. The Wildcats defeated Colorado 78-63 on Saturday, pulling away in the second half after a narrow 33-31 halftime lead.

Key contributions from role players like guard Anthony Dell’Orso and forward Henri Veesaar have bolstered Arizona’s improved play. Dell’Orso, a transfer from Campbell, scored 20 points on six 3-pointers against Colorado. Veesaar has averaged 10.2 points and 4.2 rebounds over the last five games, including a standout 19-point performance against Baylor.

Lloyd praised Dell’Orso’s impact: “I’ve told Delly all along, ‘You’ve got to stay locked in and ready because there’s gonna be nights where I need you to be our leading scorer.’”

Key Matchups to Watch

• Curtis Jones vs. Arizona’s Defense: Jones’ scoring ability will test the Wildcats’ perimeter defense, especially in transition.
• Henri Veesaar in the Paint: Veesaar’s recent emergence adds depth to Arizona’s frontcourt, but he’ll face a tough challenge against Iowa State’s physicality.
• Joshua Jefferson on the Glass: Jefferson’s rebounding and defensive presence will be crucial in controlling Arizona’s second-chance opportunities.

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What’s at Stake

Both teams have only one day to prepare for this high-stakes matchup, a schedule that mirrors the quick turnarounds of March Madness. While Lloyd acknowledged the challenge, he emphasized the learning opportunity: “It’s a short prep, so this is also another preparation of what it’s going to look like in March.”

Otzelberger, however, downplayed the NCAA Tournament parallel. “We just look at it as this is the job that we have in front of us, and we need to prepare for this opportunity,” he said.

A Game That Could Shape the Season

Monday’s showdown between Iowa State and Arizona will not only impact the Big 12 standings but also serve as a barometer for both teams as they gear up for the stretch run. Can the Cyclones maintain their dominance, or will Arizona continue their resurgence with a statement win at home?