Iowa State Women’s Basketball Remains Undefeated After Marquette Victory

FORT MYERS, Fla. – The No. 10 Iowa State women’s basketball team improved to 8-0 on Friday, defeating Marquette 84-73 in the first round of the Coconut Hoops Blue Heron Division.

Iowa State led from the start. The Cyclones jumped to an early lead with a quick 10-0 run, establishing a 15-4 advantage. Marquette closed the gap, cutting the lead to five before ending the first quarter at 23-18 in favor of Iowa State.

The second quarter saw Iowa State extend its lead, thanks in part to a dominant performance by the team’s starters. Two players, scoring 14 and 13 points, spearheaded a successful half, allowing Iowa State to outscore Marquette and reach halftime with a 47-35 lead.

As the third quarter began, Iowa State faced foul trouble with star player Ashley Joens benched. However, newcomers stepped up to push their advantage. The Cyclones ended the third quarter with a 70-52 lead.

The fourth quarter was a continuation of Iowa State’s strong defense and offensive rebounds, helping secure a comfortable 84-73 victory. The Cyclones finished with 18 second-chance points from 17 offensive boards.

Iowa State’s top performers included Joens, who scored 18 points, and forward Lexi Donarski, who contributed 15 points and 11 rebounds for her second double-double of the season.

The Cyclones will face the winner of the Indiana vs. Gonzaga game in the Blue Heron Division Championship on Sunday, November 30th at 12:30 p.m. CT.