Iowa State Edges Syracuse in Tight Matchup

Cyclones hold off Orange in battle of NCAA tournament hopefuls

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:49pm

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In a closely contested game between two teams vying for NCAA tournament berths, the Iowa State Cyclones defeated the Syracuse Orange 78-73. The game featured a highly anticipated matchup between Iowa State's star player Crooks and Syracuse's talented newcomer Izoje, with both players making key contributions to their teams' efforts.

Why it matters

This game had major implications for both teams' postseason aspirations, as they look to solidify their resumes ahead of Selection Sunday. The Cyclones and Orange have faced off twice before, making this an intriguing rivalry game with a history between the programs.

The details

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to pull away for long. Iowa State's outside shooting and Crooks' scoring prowess proved to be the difference, as the Cyclones were able to withstand a strong effort from Syracuse's Izoje and their bench players like Thompson and Almón-Sanchez. The Orange were hampered by the absence of the injured Darius, who had been a key contributor for them this season.

  • The game took place on Friday afternoon in Storrs, Connecticut.
  • This was the third meeting all-time between Iowa State and Syracuse, and the second time they have faced off in Storrs.

The players

Crooks

The star player for Iowa State, known for her scoring ability and impact on both ends of the floor.

Izoje

A talented newcomer for Syracuse, who emerged as a strong shot-blocker and interior presence for the Orange this season.

Darius

A key contributor for Syracuse who missed the game due to injury, leaving the Orange's depth and scoring options more limited.

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What they’re saying

“Crooks vs Izoje is going to be something. You have the All-American going against a talented newcomer, who is still a bit under the radar to casual fans. Hopefully the refs let them play a little bit because it would be disappointing to see one or both in foul trouble.”

— Kevin Wall, of Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician

“Without Darius, the depth is really stretched thin. While Darius played PG, she could take on a bigger scoring role when Phelia or Burrows went to the bench. The area that could be key are players like Journey Thompson or Aurora Almón-Sanchez who can hit the offensive glass and help on Crooks.”

— Kevin Wall, of Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician

What’s next

The Cyclones and Orange will await their NCAA tournament seedings and matchups, hoping to make deep runs in the Big Dance.

The takeaway

This closely contested game between two tournament-caliber teams showcased the depth and talent of both programs, with Iowa State's star power and outside shooting proving to be the difference in the end.