Iowa State vs. Oklahoma State: Game Preview, Prediction

By Taylor Sturm
OK State Basketball
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Oklahoma State Cowboys have surprised many by pushing their way into 2015 NCAA Tournament discussion after the preseason media poll predicted them to finish eighth in the conference. Currently at fifth in the Big 12 and No. 22 in the country, the Cowboys should feel fairly confident that they should make the Big Dance. However, they’ll want to improve their Big 12 tournament seeding by continuing their in-conference success.

Next up for Oklahoma State will be the Iowa State Cyclones, who barely won at home in early January, 63-61. These two teams will face off on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 9 p.m. on ESPNU at Oklahoma State’s Gallagher-Iba Arena.

Iowa State is one of the better teams in the country, but they have struggled heavily on the road this season. The Cyclones only have one conference road win so far, and that dates all the way back into early January. The Cyclones need to show that they can get it done against talented opposition on the road, or they will be extremely nervous once the tournament swings around.

The Cyclones are the better all-around team. They have the better players; they have more talent. However, it’s hard to ignore how awful they have been on the road this season. On the other hand, Oklahoma State has only lost one game at home this season, and they’ve beaten teams like the Kansas Jayhawks and Baylor Bears. Expect Oklahoma State to win this one in a close game that comes down to whether or not they can make free throws late in the game.

Prediction: Oklahoma State 68, Iowa State 66

Taylor Sturm is a Featured Basketball Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @TSturmRS, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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