Syracuse Orange women's basketball Advance Past Iowa State

Syracuse Orange women’s basketball Advance Past Iowa State

Balanced scoring and defensive execution lift Syracuse into the second round.

The Syracuse Orange women’s basketball are moving on.

In a physical and momentum-filled matchup, Syracuse used a balanced offensive attack and strong interior defense to secure a win over the Iowa State Cyclones women’s basketball and advance in the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament.

How It Happened

Syracuse leaned heavily on its ability to attack the paint early, especially when Iowa State’s star center Audi Crooks was off the floor. That advantage helped the Orange establish rhythm offensively.

Uche Izoje controlled the game throughout, finishing with 23 points and consistently finding her spots. Olivia Schmitt provided a major spark from beyond the arc, knocking down five three-pointers in a breakout performance.

Laila Phelia added 14 points, contributing timely baskets and key plays on both ends.

Defensive Effort Sets the Tone

Syracuse’s defensive focus was clear: limit Crooks.

The Orange held her to just five points in one stretch early and consistently made her work for position. Through three quarters, Syracuse’s physical defense and rebounding effort helped hold Iowa State to just 32% shooting.

Syracuse also controlled the glass, taking a 30–27 rebounding advantage into the fourth quarter, including 14 defensive boards in the first half.

Iowa State Pushes Back

Despite Syracuse’s control, Iowa State made multiple runs.

After trailing for much of the game, the Cyclones regained the lead briefly at 14–11 after the first quarter. Later, they cut a double-digit deficit down to six in the fourth quarter behind a dominant performance from Crooks, who finished with over 30 points.

Crooks scored in bunches late, including four straight points during Iowa State’s final push, but Syracuse responded with timely stops and free throws to maintain control.

Closing Moments

Syracuse closed the third quarter with a key defensive stop and carried that momentum into the final period. Although Iowa State slowed the pace and chipped away at the lead, the Orange’s composure and shot-making proved enough to hold on.