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This game had a break neck speed as both teams pushed the pace any chance they could get and that led to a many heat check three’s — the first half saw 13 attempts from each team — and quick possessions. Also, with those fast possessions there also were some impressive blocks on both sides.
In the end it was Iowa State who held off each and every Nevada run in the second half to win 84-73.
Iowa State dominated the first half and led 40-27 as Nevada went cold at times and missed multiple point-blank shots. At least eight from this shot chart show that, and double-digit misses within the key. The Wolf Pack also missed a handful of and-1 situations, too.
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The second half saw Nevada start well offensively and cut the lead to four but each time the Wolf Pack got close Iowa State would go on a run to expand their lead. The Wolf Pack had one last run by cutting into the Cyclones lead to make it 71-66, but then Iowa State would go on a 5-0 run, all on free throws.
Free throws were key as the Cyclones converted 12 free throws in the final three minutes, and for the game Iowa State went 16 of 18.
The one advantage that everyone said about this game was that Nevada had the size advantage and would very likely out rebound Iowa State. However, it was the Cyclones who won the battle of the boards by a large 38-28 margin.
The rebounding edge coupled with Iowa State performing well against this Nevada defense were the key reasons for the Cyclones to get the win. The Cyclones offense took advantage of open shots and made them at a clip of 55 percent from the field and 42 percent from beyond the arc.
Leading the way for Nevada was once again Cameron Oliver had 22 points, eight rebounds and four blocks, plus Jordan Caroline who had 20 points, eight rebounds and four assists.