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Iowa State Women's Basketball: The Rising Force In College Sports

Sain April 16, 2025

There’s something special happening in Ames, Iowa, and it’s not just the cornfields or the Cyclones’ iconic football team. The Iowa State Women's Basketball program has been turning heads across the nation, proving that they’re not just here to compete—they’re here to dominate. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering this powerhouse team, there’s plenty to get excited about. This isn’t just basketball; it’s a movement.

Women's basketball has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years, thanks to some incredible athletes, passionate coaches, and a growing appreciation for the sport. The Iowa State Women's Basketball team is at the forefront of this revolution, consistently performing at a high level and earning respect from fans and analysts alike. But what exactly makes this team so special? Let’s dive in.

From their electrifying gameplay to their commitment to excellence both on and off the court, the Cyclones have become a force to be reckoned with. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Iowa State Women's Basketball, including their history, standout players, and what the future holds for this rising star in college sports.

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Here’s the deal: if you’re into basketball, this is a team you’ll want to keep an eye on. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s break it down.

Table of Contents:

The History of Iowa State Women's Basketball
Key Players Shaping the Team
Coaching Excellence: The Leaders Behind the Success
Season Highlights: What Made Them Stand Out
The Fan Experience: Why Being a Cyclone Fan is Amazing
Looking Ahead: The Future of Iowa State Women's Basketball
Building Community Through Basketball
Stats and Records: Breaking Down the Numbers
Recruitment Strategies: How They Find Talent
Conclusion: Why This Team Matters

The History of Iowa State Women's Basketball

Let’s rewind for a sec and talk about where it all began. Iowa State Women's Basketball has a rich history that dates back to the early days of college sports. The program officially started in 1974, and since then, they’ve been building a legacy that’s hard to ignore. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse, the Cyclones have come a long way.

Back in the day, women's sports didn’t get the recognition they deserved. But the Iowa State program was determined to change that. They worked tirelessly to build a competitive team and create opportunities for female athletes. Over the years, they’ve produced some incredible players who’ve gone on to achieve great things both in and out of basketball.

Fast forward to today, and the Cyclones are one of the top teams in the Big 12 Conference. They’ve made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament, including some memorable runs to the Sweet 16 and beyond. This isn’t just a team; it’s a symbol of progress and equality in sports.

Evolution of the Program

One of the coolest things about Iowa State Women's Basketball is how they’ve evolved over the years. They’ve adapted to changes in the game, embraced new strategies, and continued to innovate. Here are a few key moments that shaped the program:

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1988: The Cyclones made their first NCAA Tournament appearance, marking a significant milestone for the program.
2000: They reached the Elite Eight for the first time, showcasing their potential as a national contender.
2015: A historic run to the Final Four solidified their status as one of the top teams in the country.

These moments didn’t just happen overnight. They were the result of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. And that’s something fans can really get behind.

Key Players Shaping the Team

Every great team has its stars, and the Iowa State Women's Basketball team is no exception. These players aren’t just talented on the court; they’re also role models who inspire others through their work ethic and leadership. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout athletes who’ve helped shape the program.

NaLyssa Smith: The Heart and Soul

NaLyssa Smith is one of the most decorated players in Iowa State history. Known for her versatility and scoring ability, she’s a nightmare for opposing defenses. Whether she’s driving to the basket or hitting threes from beyond the arc, Smith has a knack for finding ways to score.

But her impact goes beyond just stats. Smith is a leader on and off the court, always encouraging her teammates and pushing them to be their best. She’s a true Cyclone through and through, and her legacy will live on long after she graduates.

Other Notable Mentions

Of course, NaLyssa Smith isn’t the only player making waves. Here are a few others who’ve left their mark on the program:

Bridget Carleton: A former standout who’s now playing professionally, Carleton was known for her clutch performances and incredible shooting range.
Ashley Joens: Another all-around talent, Joens has been a key player for the Cyclones in recent years, consistently delivering big plays when it matters most.
Lexi Donarski: A rising star with a bright future ahead of her, Donarski has shown flashes of brilliance that have fans buzzing about her potential.

These players, and many others, have helped make Iowa State Women's Basketball the success story it is today.

Coaching Excellence: The Leaders Behind the Success

You can’t talk about the success of the Iowa State Women's Basketball program without mentioning the coaching staff. These are the folks who put in the hard work behind the scenes, developing strategies, mentoring players, and creating a winning culture.

At the helm is head coach Bill Fennelly, a veteran coach with decades of experience. Fennelly has been with the program since 1995, and under his leadership, the Cyclones have consistently been one of the top teams in the Big 12. He’s not just a coach; he’s a mentor who cares deeply about his players and their development as people.

Building a Winning Culture

Fennelly’s approach to coaching is all about building a strong team culture. He emphasizes values like hard work, accountability, and teamwork, and those values are evident in everything the Cyclones do. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about building character and preparing players for life after basketball.

And it’s not just Fennelly. The entire coaching staff plays a crucial role in the team’s success. From assistant coaches to strength and conditioning specialists, everyone works together to create an environment where players can thrive.

Season Highlights: What Made Them Stand Out

Every season brings its own set of challenges and opportunities, and the Iowa State Women's Basketball team has had some incredible moments over the years. Let’s take a look at a few highlights that have made them stand out:

2022-2023 Season Recap

The 2022-2023 season was another strong year for the Cyclones. They finished with a record of 27-7, earning a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Some key moments from the season include:

Big 12 Championship: The Cyclones won the Big 12 regular-season title, proving their dominance in the conference.
NCAA Tournament Run: They made it to the Sweet 16, where they narrowly lost to eventual national champion LSU.
Player of the Year Honors: Lexi Donarski was named Big 12 Player of the Year, highlighting her incredible season.

These achievements didn’t come easy. They were the result of countless hours of practice, preparation, and determination. And that’s what makes them so special.

The Fan Experience: Why Being a Cyclone Fan is Amazing

Let’s talk about the fans for a second. The Iowa State Women's Basketball team has one of the most passionate and dedicated fan bases in the country. Whether you’re at Hilton Coliseum or watching from home, there’s something truly electric about being a part of this community.

The energy in Hilton Coliseum during home games is unmatched. Fans pack the stands, cheering on their favorite players and creating an atmosphere that’s tough for opposing teams to handle. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about coming together and supporting something bigger than yourself.

Why Fans Love the Cyclones

So why do fans love the Iowa State Women's Basketball team so much? Here are a few reasons:

Competitive Success: The Cyclones consistently compete at a high level, giving fans plenty to cheer about.
Community: The program has built a strong sense of community, both on campus and beyond.
Role Models: The players are more than just athletes; they’re role models who inspire others through their actions both on and off the court.

Being a Cyclone fan isn’t just about rooting for a team; it’s about being part of something special.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Iowa State Women's Basketball

So what’s next for the Iowa State Women's Basketball team? The future looks bright, thanks to a combination of returning talent, incoming recruits, and a strong coaching staff. Here’s what fans can expect:

Upcoming Stars

One of the things that excites fans the most is the talent coming through the program. Players like Lexi Donarski and Ashley Joens will continue to lead the charge, while incoming recruits bring fresh energy and new skills to the team.

The coaching staff is also focused on developing young players and giving them opportunities to grow. This means the future is in good hands, and fans can look forward to more exciting seasons ahead.

Building Community Through Basketball

One of the coolest things about Iowa State Women's Basketball is how it brings people together. Whether you’re a student, alum, or just a basketball fan, the program has a way of creating connections and building community.

Through events like community service projects, youth clinics, and fan engagement initiatives, the Cyclones are making a difference both on and off the court. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about making a positive impact in the world.

Stats and Records: Breaking Down the Numbers

Let’s talk numbers for a second. The Iowa State Women's Basketball team has achieved some impressive stats and records over the years. Here are a few highlights:

Conference Titles: The Cyclones have won 10 Big 12 regular-season titles and 4 tournament championships.
NCAA Tournament Appearances: They’ve made the tournament 18 times, including 5 trips to the Sweet 16 and 2 trips to the Final Four.
Scoring Records: Players like Bridget Carleton and Ashley Joens have set numerous scoring records, cementing their place in program history.

These numbers don’t just tell a story of success; they tell a story of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Recruitment Strategies: How They Find Talent

One of the keys to the Iowa State Women's Basketball program’s success is their recruitment strategy. The coaching staff works tirelessly to identify top talent and bring it to Ames. Here’s how they do it:

Scouting and Evaluation

The process starts with scouting. The coaching staff travels across the country, attending high school games, tournaments, and camps to identify potential recruits. They look for players who not only have the skills to succeed on the court but also the character and work ethic to thrive in the program.

Once they’ve identified a player, they begin the evaluation process. This involves watching game film, talking to coaches, and getting to know the player personally. It’s a comprehensive approach that ensures they’re bringing in the right talent.