Mountaineers Shock No. 11 iowa State in Dominating Road Victory
AMES, Iowa – January 11, 2026 – The West Virginia University women’s basketball team secured a significant 83-70 victory against No. 11 Iowa State on Sunday afternoon, marking their highest-ranked win since 2019. The win,fueled by a dominant performance in the paint and relentless defensive pressure,handed the Cyclones their third consecutive loss [1]. This victory underscores a growing momentum for the Mountaineers as they navigate a challenging schedule.
A Tale of Two Halves: Mountaineers Take Control
While the first half saw a back-and-forth battle, West Virginia seized control in the third and fourth quarters. The Mountaineers’ ability to capitalize on Iowa State’s turnovers – forcing a staggering 25 throughout the game – proved to be a decisive factor, converting those possessions into 30 crucial points. West Virginia’s offensive efficiency was equally notable, shooting 50.8% from the field and connecting on 7 of 13 three-point attempts.
Wheeler and Harrison Lead the Charge
Graduate forward Kierra Wheeler was a force to be reckoned with, delivering a season-high 25 points and adding 7 rebounds. Her dominance inside was instrumental in West Virginia outscoring Iowa State 44-20 in the paint. Senior guard Jordan Harrison showcased her all-around brilliance, contributing 19 points, 8 assists, 7 steals, and 5 rebounds – a rare stat line that places her among the program’s elite performers. Harrison also surpassed 1,500 career points during the game, adding another layer of importance to her outstanding performance.
Key Stats and game Flow
- Turnovers: West Virginia capitalized on 25 Iowa State turnovers, scoring 30 points off those errors.
- Paint Dominance: The Mountaineers outscored the Cyclones 44-20 in the paint,highlighting their interior strength.
- Shooting Efficiency: WVU shot 50.8% from the field and 53.8% from beyond the arc.
- First Quarter Rally: after trailing early, West Virginia closed the first quarter with a buzzer-beating three-pointer from Harrison, taking a 22-21 lead.
- Second Half Surge: A strong start to the third quarter saw the Mountaineers extend their lead to double digits, a cushion they wouldn’t relinquish.
Looking Ahead: A Tough Test Awaits
West Virginia returns home to face another ranked opponent, No. 12 TCU, on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET inside Hope Coliseum. This marks the third consecutive game against a ranked team for the Mountaineers, presenting a significant challenge but also an opportunity to further solidify their position as a contender in the Big 12 Conference.The team’s recent success, coupled with the strong individual performances of players like Wheeler and Harrison, suggests they are well-equipped to handle the pressure.
What This Win Means for WVU
This victory over Iowa State isn’t just about the win itself; it’s a statement.It demonstrates West Virginia’s ability to perform on the road against top-tier competition. the Mountaineers’ aggressive defense and efficient offense are a potent combination, and their willingness to attack the paint and capitalize on opponent’s mistakes sets them apart. The win also provides a significant boost to their NCAA Tournament resume, potentially improving their seeding when March rolls around.
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