Arizona State Women’s Basketball Advances in Big 12 Tournament After Gutty Win Over Iowa State

TEMPE — Arizona State Sun Devils (24-9, 9-9) secured a consequential 77-68 win over Iowa State (22-9, 10-8) in the second round of the Big 12 tournament from Kansas City, Missouri. The victory significantly boosts Arizona State’s chances of reaching the NCAA tournament for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

Heading into Thursday’s game, Arizona State was considered on the tournament bubble, with ESPN placing the team in the “first four out.” Iowa State presented a challenge, boasting one of the leading scorers in college basketball, Audi Crooks, and having defeated Arizona State by 26 points just over two weeks prior.

Arizona State Gutted Out Win

The Sun Devils’ win was built on strong performances in the first and third quarters. Arizona State won the first frame 17-9 and the third quarter 27-21. The first quarter was characterized by strong defense, while the third quarter saw an offensive surge that gave the team as much as a 16-point lead.

All five Arizona State starters contributed significantly on offense. Gabby Elliott led the team with 22 points, while Heloisa Carrera, McKinna Brackens, and Last-Tear Poa all scored in double figures. Marley Washenitz added two crucial three-point shots, one in the third period that helped catalyze the win.

Arizona State shot efficiently, making 46% of its three-point attempts (6-13) and 82% of its free throws (23-28). Iowa State struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 19%.

Arizona State Receives Rematch With West Virginia

Arizona State will face two-seed West Virginia on Friday afternoon at 4:30 P.M. MST. West Virginia previously defeated Arizona State 53-43 on January 21 in Morgantown. In that game, Arizona State led 37-34 after three quarters but was outscored 19-6 in the final period.

A win against West Virginia would significantly strengthen Arizona State’s at-large bid to the NCAA tournament. A victory would advance the Sun Devils to a semifinal matchup against either Kansas State or Oklahoma State.

Arizona State head coach Molly Miller has been instrumental in the team’s turnaround, securing the program record for most wins in her first year. Miller has emphasized establishing a strong program culture since taking the job in March of last year.