Ames, Iowa — In a dominant performance, No. 8 Iowa State showcased its prowess by defeating Chicago State 96-56 on Monday, marking their 30th consecutive season-opening victory, the longest current streak in NCAA Division I basketball.

Addy Brown led the Cyclones with an impressive 20 points and contributed significantly with nine rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and a steal. Audi Crooks also had a noteworthy game, scoring 16 points. In addition, Aili Tanke marked her debut with 12 points, while Alisa Williams chipped in 10 points in her first appearance for the Cyclones. Emily Ryan supported the team with nine points, registering a team-high six assists and four steals.

On the Chicago State side, Asha Walker was the leading scorer with 18 points, and Aiyanna Culver added 14. The Cougars, who struggled last season with a record of 1-27 and are predicted to finish last in the Northeast Conference, had a rocky start, missing their first 14 shot attempts before Culver finally scored a three-pointer as the first quarter drew to a close.

In terms of game dynamics, Iowa State performed as expected against a team that was clearly outmatched. The Cyclones utilized their roster effectively, rotating eleven players who each played between 15 and 23 minutes, and a notable ten players were able to score in the game.

A significant highlight came early in the contest when Iowa State surged to a staggering 29-0 lead, a rally led by All-Big 12 center Audi Crooks and Aili Tanke, who each netted six points during that stretch.

One impressive statistic worth noting is that Aili Tanke, a freshman and top-100 national recruit from Johnston, Iowa, made two of the Cyclones’ five three-pointers in the first quarter, finishing an excellent 3-for-4 shooting from beyond the arc.

Looking ahead, Iowa State will host Indiana State on Thursday night, while Chicago State is set to face Butler on Wednesday.