LUBBOCK, Texas — With just 4.1 seconds remaining in overtime, Joshua Jefferson secured the victory for the third-ranked Iowa State Cyclones, sinking two free throws after a dramatic layup at the buzzer, leading to an 85-84 win against Texas Tech on Saturday. This marks Iowa State’s 11th consecutive victory, enhancing their record to 14-1 overall and 4-0 in the Big 12 conference.
Jefferson had a standout performance by contributing 17 points and grabbing eight rebounds, finishing strong with the last six points for his team, which included four free throws and a crucial layup in the final minute of the overtime period. Notably, Curtis Jones led the scoring for Iowa State with 26 points, while teammate Keshon Gilbert added 14 to the total.
On the other side, Texas Tech (11-4, 2-2) saw strong performances from Chance McMillian, JT Toppin, and Christian Anderson, who each scored 18 points. Darrion Williams added 15 points; however, his attempt at a short runner at the end of the game hit the back of the rim, sealing the Cyclones’ win.
Jefferson tied the game at the end of regulation with a layup, thanks to an assist from Tamin Lipsey, bringing the score to 74.
In terms of performance, Iowa State displayed a shooting percentage of 52.5%, successfully completing 31 of 59 attempts from the field. This victory was significant as they persevered through a 13-point deficit during the game, marking their second comeback win on the road this season, the first being against Iowa on December 12.
Texas Tech initially took a commanding lead at 31-18 with a little over six minutes remaining in the first half, but Iowa State went on a scoring streak of 10 unanswered points. The Red Raiders maintained their advantage until Lipsey’s three-pointer shifted the momentum midway through the second half.
A pivotal moment occurred with 5.7 seconds left in regulation when McMillian, a reliable 91% free throw shooter, made one of his two free throw attempts. Officials subsequently reviewed the play, adding an additional half-second to the game clock before Iowa State’s last play.
Despite Iowa State’s season-high of 15 turnovers that allowed Texas Tech to score 15 points, they managed to rally for the win.
Looking ahead, Texas Tech will face off against Kansas State on Tuesday evening, while Iowa State will host the 11th-ranked Kansas Jayhawks (12-3, 3-1) on Wednesday night.
