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I cannot say that I am at all surprised by the outcome of this game. Going on the road to play against a ranked opponent is a hefty task. The Big 12 is arguably the best basketball conference in the country so road wins will be at a premium for every team. Iowa State is great and will have a very good season, but if the offense had executed just a little better they might have pulled the upset. I do not think that Texas Tech played their best game tonight. Very sloppy at times, however it was impressive the way this team hung in there. They were down 18 points and had a legitimate chance to win in the final three minutes. I am still really excited about the potential this team has and we should all be proud of their effort tonight. If you remember we were blown out by 37 points last year in Ames, Iowa. I would say this game was marked improvement.
First Half
The team struggled on both sides of the ball in the first half. Tech was 0 for 9 from three and was 6 of 11 at the free throw line. Tubby Smith was forced to switch the defense to zone after the team was down by 18 points. The zone worked and the Red Raiders went on 10-0 run. The zone, along with ISU's early foul trouble, allowed Tech to get the score close again. At half time the Cyclones led 40-30.
Second Half
The second half started much better for Texas Tech as they came out sharper and more aggressive. Tech clawed their way back into the game early in the second half by getting the ball inside with passes and penetration. Unfortunately, every time Tech got within three or four points ISU would come up with a big shot. Matt Thomas for ISU was red hot making 6 three pointers and several of them were when Tech threatened to tie the game.
Game Notes
- Tech was 2 for 15 from three while ISU was 8 of 22.
- Justin Grey came off the bench to lead Tech with 14 points and 9 rebounds.
- ISU had four players score in double digits led by Matt Thomas' game high 22 points.
- Tech was 9 of 15 from the free throw line. A very uncharacteristic 60%.
- Gotcher was second in scoring tonight with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, but was 0-4 from 3 point land.