Iowa State Dominates Marquette at Coconut Hoops: Cyclones Extend Unbeaten Streak

Iowa State’s Unbeaten Run Continues in Fort Myers

The Coconut Hoops tournament in Fort Myers, Florida, set the stage for a high-stakes clash between two women’s college basketball programs with very different narratives. The Iowa State Cyclones, ranked No. 10 nationally, arrived undefeated, riding a wave of momentum and expectation. Marquette, meanwhile, brought continuity and experience as the only Division I program returning every player from last season—a rare feat in the modern game. On November 28, 2025, these two met in a contest that would quickly reveal why Iowa State is one of the hottest teams in the country.

First Quarter: Cyclones Take Early Control

From the opening tip, Iowa State wasted no time asserting their dominance. The Cyclones shot an efficient 56% from the field in the first quarter, with Audi Crooks leading the way. Crooks, in the midst of a 74-game double-digit scoring streak, poured in 10 points as Iowa State jumped out to a 23-18 lead. Marquette, despite trailing early, managed to rally back, but the Cyclones’ rebounding edge—11-4 in the first period—set a tone that would persist throughout the game (Des Moines Register).

Building the Lead: Free Throws and Second-Chance Points

By halftime, Iowa State had stretched their lead to 47-35. The difference was clear: the Cyclones were relentless on the boards, outrebounding Marquette 21-8 and collecting eight offensive rebounds for 11 second-chance points. Marquette struggled to get to the free-throw line, attempting just three foul shots in the first half, while Iowa State went 9-of-12. Jada Williams and Audi Crooks combined for 27 points before the break, with Williams showcasing her versatility by adding rebounds and assists to her scoring line (ESPN).

Third Quarter Surge: Cyclones Pull Away

The third quarter proved decisive. Iowa State outscored Marquette 23-17, opening up a commanding 70-52 advantage by the end of the period. Addy Brown joined Crooks and Williams in double figures, illustrating the Cyclones’ balanced scoring attack. Marquette, for all its experience, could not keep pace with Iowa State’s energy and execution. The Golden Eagles’ efforts were hampered by foul trouble and difficulties defending inside, as Crooks and her teammates continued to find ways to score and draw fouls.

Star Power and Depth Shine for Iowa State

Audi Crooks finished with 16 points, cementing her role as the offensive anchor. Jada Williams and Addy Brown each added 15, with Williams impressively grabbing 11 rebounds—remarkable for a point guard. Iowa State’s ability to get to the free-throw line was a major factor; the Cyclones converted 20-of-24 attempts, while Marquette managed just 6-of-8. On a night when Iowa State struggled from long range (making only 4-of-15 three-pointers), their inside play and aggressive drives made all the difference.

Marquette’s Skylar Forbes, a standout two-way player, and Halle Vice, one of the Big East’s top rebounders, did their best to keep the Golden Eagles competitive. Forbes contributed blocks and outside shooting, but Iowa State’s defense forced Marquette into uncomfortable shots and limited their second-chance opportunities.

Final Push: Cyclones Seal the Win

The fourth quarter saw Marquette try to mount a comeback, but Iowa State’s depth and composure closed the door. The Cyclones maintained control of the boards and continued to pressure Marquette’s offense. With two minutes left, Iowa State’s lead remained comfortable, and the final buzzer confirmed an 84-68 victory. The win propelled Iowa State to an 8-0 record, matching their best start since the 2021-22 season, and solidifying their credentials as a potential NCAA Tournament powerhouse (Iowa State Athletics).

What This Win Means for Both Teams

For Iowa State, the victory at Coconut Hoops is more than just another notch in the win column. It reinforces their reputation as a team capable of grinding out wins even when perimeter shooting falters. The Cyclones’ ability to adapt—dominating the glass, drawing fouls, and sharing the scoring load—will serve them well as the season intensifies. Coach Bill Fennelly’s squad now looks ahead to conference play with confidence and a target on their back as one of the nation’s few remaining unbeatens.

Marquette, on the other hand, will need to regroup. Their experience and continuity remain valuable assets, but the game exposed some vulnerabilities, especially in rebounding and drawing fouls. For coach Cara Consuegra, the task is to channel the lessons from this loss into sharper execution and more physical play, especially against elite competition. The Golden Eagles’ tournament resume is still strong, but they’ll need statement wins to keep pace in a competitive Big East.

Key Stats and Series History

– Iowa State: 8-0 (undefeated), 20-24 FT, 39 rebounds, 4-15 3PT
– Marquette: 4-2, 6-8 FT, 22 rebounds, 6-18 3PT
– Star Performers: Crooks (16 pts), Williams (15 pts, 11 reb), Brown (15 pts)
– Marquette’s last wins vs Iowa State came in 2003 and 2006, but the Cyclones have now claimed the latest chapter in this intermittent series.

Tournament Implications and Looking Ahead

The Coconut Hoops tournament provided both teams with valuable exposure and a reality check on where they stand against top-level competition. Iowa State’s win boosts their national profile and strengthens their NCAA Tournament case. For Marquette, the challenge is clear: rebound, adjust, and prove their experience can translate into wins against the nation’s best.

Iowa State’s victory in Fort Myers was a statement of intent. Despite shooting woes from distance, the Cyclones showcased the kind of depth, physicality, and poise that turns good teams into great ones. Marquette’s continuity is impressive, but Iowa State’s balance and star power set them apart—and if this game is any indication, the Cyclones are built for a long run into March.