The Iowa State Cyclones are set to face the Ole Miss Rebels in a highly anticipated NCAA Tournament matchup. With a Sweet Sixteen berth on the line, both teams are prepared to leave it all on the court. This game not only represents a chance for Iowa State to continue their impressive tournament run but also marks a reunion with former foe Chris Beard, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the contest.
Iowa State’s journey to this point included dispatching Lipscomb in the first round, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Ole Miss, on the other hand, overcame North Carolina, highlighting their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. As the Cyclones prepare for this showdown, here’s what you need to know about their opponent, the key matchups, and the potential road ahead.
This article dives into the specifics of the Iowa State vs. Ole Miss game, offering viewers and fans the essential details needed to stay informed, including TV and streaming options, player spotlights, and a historical look at Chris Beard’s encounters with Iowa State. Whether you’re a die-hard Cyclones supporter or just a college basketball enthusiast, this guide is your go-to source for everything surrounding this exciting NCAA Tournament game.
How to Watch Iowa State vs. Ole Miss: TV and Streaming Details
For fans eager to catch the Iowa State Cyclones take on the Ole Miss Rebels, here are the essential viewing details:
- When: Sunday, March 23, at 6:45 p.m. CT*
- Where: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- TV: truTV
- Live Stream: March Madness Live
*Note: The game will commence approximately 30 minutes following the conclusion of the Illinois vs. Kentucky game, also held in Milwaukee. That game is scheduled to begin at 4:15 p.m. CT.
All NCAA Men’s Tournament games are broadcasted on CBS, TBS, TNT, and truTV. Streaming options include March Madness Live, Paramount+ (for CBS games), and Max (for TNT, TBS, and truTV games). Check local listings for availability.
Ole Miss: A Quick Look at the Rebels
Ole Miss enters the tournament with a record of 23-11, finishing sixth in the SEC with a 10-8 conference record. Their NCAA Tournament history is relatively sparse, with their last appearance being a first-round exit in 2018-19. The Rebels haven’t advanced past the first weekend since 2001 when they reached the Sweet Sixteen.
According to KenPom, Ole Miss ranks 34th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 18th in adjusted defensive efficiency. A key strength is their ability to avoid turnovers, ranking third-lowest nationally in turnover rate (13.0%). However, their shooting percentages are average:
- 3-Point Percentage: 34.3% (151st nationally)
- 2-Point Percentage: 50.9% (183rd nationally)
- Free Throw Percentage: 73.5% (126th nationally)
Defensively, Ole Miss excels at forcing turnovers but tends to commit a significant number of fouls. They also struggle with offensive and defensive rebounding.
Key Players to Watch: Sean Pedulla and Malik Dia
Ole Miss boasts a balanced offensive attack, with six players averaging double-figure points. The leader is senior guard Sean Pedulla, a transfer from Virginia Tech, averaging 14.9 points and 3.6 assists per game. Pedulla also leads the team in 3-point shooting, making 38.8% of his 6.1 attempts per game.
Iowa State fans may remember Pedulla from last season when he led Virginia Tech to a 71-62 victory over the Cyclones in the ESPN Events Invitational. He scored 17 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists in that game, though he also committed 5 turnovers.
Junior forward Malik Dia, in his third college program in three years, has emerged as a significant contributor, averaging 10.6 points and a team-best 5.7 rebounds per game.
A Familiar Foe: Chris Beard Returns
The game brings a familiar face to the Iowa State sideline in Chris Beard, now the head coach of Ole Miss. Beard’s history with Iowa State dates back to 2016 when he led Arkansas Little Rock to an upset victory over Purdue in the NCAA Tournament before facing Iowa State in the second round.
Iowa State, led by Georges Niang’s 28 points, defeated Beard’s Arkansas Little Rock team en route to a Sweet Sixteen appearance. Beard then moved to Texas Tech, where he faced Iowa State multiple times, compiling a 6-4 record against the Cyclones. After a stint at Texas, Beard is now at Ole Miss, adding another chapter to his rivalry with Iowa State.
Overall, Beard is 7-6 in 13 games against Iowa State as a head coach, making this matchup more than just another tournament game.
Jack Dempsey
Iowa State’s Path to the Sweet Sixteen
With a win against Ole Miss, Iowa State would advance to their third Sweet Sixteen in the last four years, marking a significant achievement for T.J. Otzelberger’s program. Otzelberger would become only the 15th coach in Division I basketball history to lead his team to three Sweet Sixteen appearances in his first four years.
The Cyclones’ balanced attack, led by players like Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert, will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by Ole Miss. Iowa State’s defensive intensity and ability to control the tempo of the game will also be key factors in determining the outcome.
Conclusion: Poised for a Sweet Sixteen Run
The Iowa State Cyclones face a tough test against the Ole Miss Rebels in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. With a Sweet Sixteen berth on the line and a familiar foe in Chris Beard coaching the opposition, this game promises excitement and intensity.
Iowa State’s balanced team, coupled with their strong defense and tournament experience, positions them well for a deep run. However, they must be prepared for Ole Miss’s balanced scoring attack and ability to force turnovers. The Cyclones must capitalize on their strengths, minimize mistakes, and execute their game plan effectively.
Ultimately, the Iowa State vs. Ole Miss game is more than just a basketball game; it’s a clash of styles, a reunion of rivals, and a quest for postseason glory. Expect a hard-fought battle, thrilling moments, and a game that will be remembered long after the final buzzer sounds. Tune in to truTV at 6:45 p.m. CT to witness the excitement unfold. The Cyclones are ready, and the stage is set for March Madness history.
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