AMES, Iowa – Alcorn State men's basketball stepped into one of college basketball's toughest environments Wednesday night, taking on No. 10 Iowa State at Hilton Coliseum. The Braves showed stretches of composure and offensive rhythm but ultimately fell 132-68 to a Cyclone team that shot exceptionally well from the field.
Alcorn opened the night with early energy, highlighted by Jameel Morris hitting a transition three to give the Braves a brief 7-2 advantage. From there, Iowa State responded with a series of runs that widened the gap, using pressure defense and fast-break scoring to build a commanding first-half lead. Still, the Braves continued to create quality looks and battled through a physical, high-tempo contest against a Top-10 program.
Morris paced Alcorn's offense with 17 points, going 7-of-15 from the floor while adding four assists, four steals, and three rebounds in one of his most complete outings of the season. Shane Lancaster was highly efficient once again, finishing with 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. His scoring punch off the wing provided one of the night's consistent sparks.
Bryson Calamese added 10 points, dished out five assists, and continued to steady the offense in the backcourt. Mike Jones gave the Braves physicality on the interior, finishing with six rebounds and five points while also recording a block. Travis Roberts contributed five points, including a three-pointer, and pulled down a rebound while Jeremy Ellis added four points and three boards. Nick Woodard chipped in five points with a pair of steals, showing constant activity on both ends.
As a team, Alcorn shot 48 percent from the floor and knocked down eight threes, showing efficiency when able to get into its sets. The Braves tallied 32 points in the paint, 16 fast-break points, and 24 points from the bench. Several young players gained valuable minutes against high-major talent, providing growth opportunities that should serve the team well as December continues.
Iowa State showcased why it is one of the nation's elite teams, shooting over 70 percent from the field and placing six players in double figures, led by Milan Momcilovic with 27 points and Jamarion Batemon with 26.
Alcorn now turns its focus to another major road matchup as the Braves travel to Waco to face Baylor on December 19. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m.
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