Iowa State Cyclones' Reserves Shine in First Round

0:00On March 22nd, Iowa State Cyclones rolled past Tennessee State 108-74 in their first round match-up. The team has been on a tier lately, playing like one of the top squads in the country thanks to strong depth and sharp coaching. Bench players really stepped up in that opener, with guys like Kiliantura and Nate Heiss making key contributions on both ends. Even without forward Joshua Jefferson, who looks sideline again, the Cyclones show they have plenty of options to keep the momentum going. Fans and analysts are buzzing about Iowa State's run, seeing them as favorites against Seven Seat Kentucky in the next round. The match-up carries real stakes, as a win sends them to the Sweet 16 in Chicago. Kentucky brings a major challenge with star guard Otega Owe, who dropped 35 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and dish 7 assists in. They're over time thriller against Santa Clara. He's the kind of player who can swing any game. To advance, Iowa State will lean on tough defense from their guards, smoothball movement on offense, and more production from the reserves.

1:02If they lock in those pieces, expect the Cyclones to keep rolling deep into March madness.