A pivotal Big 12 clash takes place in Ames as the No. 9 Kansas Jayhawks travel to Hilton Coliseum to face the No. 5 Iowa State Cyclones. With both teams chasing conference supremacy, this matchup could have major implications for seeding in March. Iowa State has been dominant at home, while Kansas continues to rely on its star power and experience.
Betting Lines
- Spread: Iowa State -5.5
- Total: 142.5
- Moneyline: Kansas +215 | Iowa State -265
Vegas expects a competitive battle, with Iowa State holding a slight edge.
Resume Check
Kansas (19–5, 9–2 Big 12)
Kansas remains one of the nation’s most consistent programs. The Jayhawks score nearly 78 points per game and rely on balanced scoring and interior defense. Road games have been their biggest challenge.
Iowa State (21–3, 8–3 Big 12)
Iowa State has been one of the most physical teams in the country. They average nearly 85 points per game and defend at a high level. Hilton Coliseum has been a major advantage.
Players to Watch
Kansas
- Darryn Peterson (20.5 PPG): Explosive scorer and go-to option.
- Flory Bidunga (14.9 PPG, 9.0 RPG): Dominant inside presence.
- Melvin Council Jr. (14.1 PPG, 5.1 APG): Team leader.
Iowa State
- Milan Momcilovic (18.4 PPG): Elite shooter and scorer.
- Joshua Jefferson (17.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 5.3 APG): All-around star.
- Tamin Lipsey (13.3 PPG, 5.4 APG): Defensive catalyst.
How Kansas Wins
Kansas must control the paint through Bidunga and limit turnovers. Peterson needs to have an efficient scoring night, and Council must handle Iowa State’s pressure. If Kansas wins the rebounding battle, they can steal this one.
How Iowa State Wins
Iowa State wins by forcing turnovers and pushing tempo. Their guards thrive in transition, and Jefferson’s versatility creates mismatches. If they defend aggressively and shoot well from three, they can protect home court.
Prediction: This is a marquee Big 12 showdown featuring one of the best players in the country in Darryn Peterson going on the road against a tough, top-five Iowa State team. Both squads can score in bunches, but the deciding factor will be defensive consistency. With the home crowd behind them and their physical defense setting the tone, Iowa State should have the edge in a close, hard-fought battle.
Iowa State 84, Kansas 78
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