Iowa State Runs Away From Southern 82-59

In typical season opener fashion, Iowa State looked bad with some questionable shooting, lots of turnovers, and putting Southern on the foul line where they hit all 11 of their shots in the first half. Then the Cyclones came back on the court and dominated the second half of the game.

Gibson was efficient from the floor in Iowa State’s first win of the season. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-US PRESSWIRE

Four of the five Cyclone starters received two fouls in the first half, but thanks to the bench’s 21 points the team was able to come back before the half. Georges Niang had a double-double from the bench, finishing with 15 points and 12 rebounds. He made a three-point shot late in the first half to barely give Iowa State a 41-39 lead at half.

Ultimately, the ISU bench outscored the Jaguars 39-14, including Percy Gibson’s 6-9 from the field and 5-7 from the charity stripe for 17 points. In comparison, Will Clyburn was the best starter with another double-double, 16 points and 10 rebounds. Korie Lucious finished his night just 1-12 shooting with four points, four rebounds, and six assists.

Southern was able to get it to an 11 point lead in the first half. With 7:29 to go in the first half, the Jaguars had a 32-21 lead. However, Iowa State made a 61-38 run the rest of the way to seal their first win of the season.

Before Niang’s shot, Southern took advantage of the fouls they got and ISU turnovers. Senior guard Derick Beltran was leading the way for them until being slowed down in the second half. He finished with 26 points.

Iowa State plays their next game on Monday against Alabama A&M at Hilton Coliseum. Tipoff will be at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Brian Spaen is the lead editor for Clones Confidential. Keep up with the latest sports fails and disdain toward the Big Ten by following him on Twitter.

Read his other work on the Oregon Ducks blog, Autzen Zoo, and Lacrosse the Web.