Big 12 team-by-team preview: Texas, Baylor battle for the top
By Jada Butts
Iowa State
Projected finish: 7th
Key returners:
Bridget Carleton 15 ppg, 40%, 5.7 rpg, 1.8 apg, 33 mpg
Meredith Burkhall 8 ppg, 45%, 5.6 rpg, 24 mpg
Biggest losses:
Seanna Johnson 15.8 ppg, 44%, 8.2 rpg, 3 apg, 34 mpg
Jadda Buckley 13.9 ppg, 44%, 2.5 rpg, 5 apg, 34 mpg
Newcomers:
Madison Wise F, 6-1, Greenfield, IN, Freshman, #42 (Hoopgurlz)
Rae Johnson G, 5-7, Albertville, MN, Freshman
Kristin Scott C, 6-3, Kasson, MN, Freshman
Bride Kennedy-Hopoate F, 6-4, Brisbane, Australia, Junior
Alexa Middleton G, 5-9, Murfreesboro, TN, Senior
Head coach: Bill Fennelly is a name that is well known in women’s basketball. He has had much success throughout his 22 years at Iowa State. He ranks among the nation’s top 25 active women’s basketball college coaches with a .686 winning percentage. The Cyclones have so much confidence in him, that they awarded him a lifetime contract following the 2006-07 season. Without his seasoned point guard, Jadda Buckley, it will be interesting to see who he relies on to be his floor general this season.
Key non-conference games:
Vanderbilt 12/2
Iowa 12/6
Outlook: Iowa State lost two veteran players that they have heavily relied on in past seasons. In order for them to be successful this season, Bridget Carleton has to be on every night. She had two 30 point performances in the 2016-2017 season. The hustle plays are where Seanna Johnson shined, so someone is going to have to step up and do the dirty work in her absence. If the Cyclones are able to find scoring in their newcomers, they will be able to compete with the best of teams.