It’s about the offense of Iowa State. They are blessed with an array of players that can play inside and out effectively. Aside from their leader and all-around playmaker, Monte Morris (16.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 6.1 APG), they also have an unpredictable scoring boost from Naz Mitou-Long (15.5 PPG), Deonte Burton (14.8 PPG), and Matt Thomas (12 PPG). Collectively, the four produce over eight threes per contest.
With that, the Cyclones rank 27th and 10th overall in points and treys, respectively.
On defense, they use their good quickness and timing to be disruptive on the passing lanes and on-ball D. They steal the ball 7.9 times every game (19th in the country), and surprise surprise, it is led by the abovementioned players, as all four are netting at least per outing.
Team Weaknesses:
Paint presence. The Cyclones have some serious problems boxing out opponents and containing attacks on the shaded lane. Among all of the 64 teams in the tournament, they are arguably the worst in both areas, particularly in controlling the boards. They are in the bottom 30 IN THE NATION in allowed offensive and defensive rebounds.
Such weaknesses, of course, are big. If you can’t get second chance points and give out a ton on the other side, you’ll be out of the tourney in no time.
