Iowa State Thumps Kentucky Despite Star's Absence

Cyclones force 20 turnovers in 82-63 NCAA Tournament win

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:55am

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Short-handed Iowa State, playing without versatile star forward Joshua Jefferson, relied on its stifling defense to defeat Kentucky 82-63 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament's Midwest Region. The Cyclones forced 20 Kentucky turnovers that led to 25 points, while veteran point guard Tamin Lipsey scored a game-high 26 points and added 10 assists.

Why it matters

This victory showcases Iowa State's defensive prowess and ability to win without one of its top players, demonstrating the team's depth and resilience as it continues its NCAA Tournament run. Kentucky's early exit raises questions about the Wildcats' inconsistency and inability to handle intense defensive pressure.

The details

Iowa State trailed 20-9 early but then clamped down on defense, forcing 12 first-half turnovers that allowed the Cyclones to take a 31-30 lead at halftime. In the second half, Iowa State's defense continued to stifle Kentucky, leading to a steady increase in the Cyclones' advantage. Iowa State shot 63.3% from the field in the second half, including 13-of-18 on 2-pointers, while the Wildcats were unable to mount a comeback despite decent overall shooting.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 23, 2026 in St. Louis, Missouri.

The players

Tamin Lipsey

Iowa State's veteran point guard, who scored a game-high 26 points and added 10 assists.

Joshua Jefferson

Iowa State's versatile star forward, who missed the game due to an ankle injury.

Denzel Aberdeen

Kentucky's leading scorer with 20 points.

Otega Oweh

Kentucky forward who scored 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds.

Mark Pope

Kentucky's head coach.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This game showcased Iowa State's defensive prowess and ability to win without one of its top players, while Kentucky's early exit raises questions about the Wildcats' inconsistency and inability to handle intense defensive pressure.