For the first time in nearly 30 years, the Iowa State women's basketball team has not made a shot from beyond the arc, ending their NCAA-record streak of 945 consecutive games with at least one three-pointer. The Cyclones triumphed over Texas Tech 71-58 at Hilton Coliseum on January 14, 2025, yet went 0 for 7 from long range.
This historic streak dates back to February 19, 1995, when Iowa State faced Colorado during the final season of coach Theresa Becker. Since then, through the rigorous training and fostering of talent under coach Bill Fennelly, the Cyclones have maintained their prowess as one of the premier three-point shooting teams. Fennelly, who assumed control of the program the following season, has since guided Iowa State to 22 NCAA tournament appearances and three Big 12 tournament titles, the latest being secured in 2023.
While the Cyclones' inability to land any three-point shots came as a shock, it didn’t diminish their determination. Fennelly noted after the game, “We only shot seven of them, so we really didn’t care.” The team’s focus was shifted to scoring points within the paint against Texas Tech, which proved effective as they racked up 71 points without relying on the trey.
To put this event's significance within the broader scope of women's basketball history, the last time Iowa State couldn’t make a three-pointer was before the WNBA had even come to life, adding layers to this break from tradition. During the Cyclones' remarkable run, many transformative moments occurred within women’s college basketball, such as UConn's rise to prominence, none of which included Iowa State being held scoreless from beyond the arc.
Fennelly took the moment of the streak ending with grace. “If we were really worried about [the record], we probably would have run about 15 more plays to get one,” he stated. Adding to the historical gravity of the day, he commented, “I get it's a big deal to some people, and it's a big deal to us. I'm proud the streak was there…”
On the court, forward Addy Brown and center Audi Crooks were key contributors, combining to score 49 points and shooting impressively from the field. This performance bolstered the Cyclones, who began the season ranked no. 8 but have since slipped from The Associated Press poll. Currently, they boast a record of 13-6 overall and 4-2 within the Big 12.
This season, Iowa State has typically ranked among the top three-point shooting teams in the Big 12, having made 151 three-pointers to date. Their former star, Ashley Joens, holds the school record with 344 three-pointers made throughout her career, casting a long shadow over this recent accomplishment.
Looking forward, the Cyclones are poised to restart their three-point streak this coming Sunday against No. 20 West Virginia. With Chattanooga holding the longest active record for women's three-point makes at 790 games, the Cyclones will have the chance to refocus and build upon their legacy.
Although the loss of this streak might feel monumental, it succeeds in reminding fans and players alike of the team’s resilience. With Coach Fennelly at the helm, the Iowa State women's basketball program continues to push forward dynamically, determined to seal their place back among the best.