Preview: Iowa State Visits Cincinnati in Big 12 Women’s Basketball CINCINNATI (Interstat) — The fifth-ranked Iowa State Cyclones look to rebound from their first loss of the season when they visit the Cincinnati Bearcats in a Big 12 Conference women’s basketball matchup Wednesday night at Fifth Third Arena. Iowa State (14-1, 2-1 Big 12) saw its perfect start end with a 72-70 home loss to Baylor on Sunday. Despite the defeat, the Cyclones’ high-powered offense, averaging over 84 points per game, remains a formidable challenge for any opponent. The focal point is sophomore center Audi Crooks, who is playing at an All-American level. Crooks is coming off a 26-point, 10-rebound performance against Baylor, her eighth double-double of the season. In her last four games, she is averaging 33 points and 9.5 rebounds, including a 41-point outburst against Kansas on Dec. 21. Cincinnati (5-10, 0-3), still seeking its first conference win, will counter with forward Kylie Torrence. The junior has been a bright spot, averaging 11.5 rebounds over her last two games and posting a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds in a 79-68 loss at Colorado on Saturday. Containing Crooks inside will likely fall to her. The Bearcats have struggled defensively, allowing 74.5 points per game during a current four-game losing streak. Slowing down an Iowa State team that features additional weapons like guards Jada Williams (28 points vs. Baylor) and Addy Brown (8.2 assists per game in Big 12 play) presents a steep challenge. This game begins a pivotal stretch for the Cyclones, who play four of their next five on the road. For the Bearcats, it marks the second of a three-game homestand as they look to spring a major upset and gain traction in league play. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday. The teams will meet again in Ames, Iowa, on Jan. 21.