Ames, Iowa — In an impressive display of offensive prowess, Joshua Jefferson delivered a career-best performance, scoring 30 points, which propelled the No. 3 Iowa State team to a commanding 108-83 victory over UCF on Tuesday night.
Keshon Gilbert contributed significantly to the Cyclones’ (16-2, 6-1 Big 12) success with 21 points along with eight assists, while Curtis Jones added another 19 points. This win represented a strong comeback for the Cyclones following their recent defeat against West Virginia on Saturday.
Jefferson shot exceptionally well, completing 9 of 14 attempts from the field and hitting 3 of 4 shots from beyond the arc, making him the first player this season to score 30 points for Iowa State. On the opposing side, Jordan Ivy-Curry led UCF (12-6, 3-4) with 24 points, and Keyshawn Hall supported with 13.
The Cyclones came into the game averaging 83.8 points per game and have now crossed the century mark in scoring for the second time this season, previously achieving this in a 100-58 victory against Jackson State on December 8.
During the game, it was noted that UCF struggled on the boards, being outrebounded 27-13 in the first half. Iowa State’s defense was also a key factor in the win, as they recorded 16 steals, with both Jefferson and Nate Heise leading the team with four steals each.
A pivotal moment in the contest occurred when Iowa State went on an 11-0 scoring run late in the first half, which allowed them to extend their lead decisively. In terms of individual performance, Iowa State center Dishon Jackson had a subdued evening, scoring only five points, all from the free-throw line, and he managed just one field goal attempt throughout the game.
Looking ahead, UCF will face TCU in their next matchup, while Iowa State prepares to take on Arizona State on Saturday.
