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DeAndre Kane leads No. 14 Iowa State to Diamond Head Classic title

kane

Entering Wednesday’s Diamond Head Classic title game, senior guard DeAndre Kane has been one of the key contributors for No. 14 Iowa State. The Marshall transfer’s versatility makes him a tough matchup for many of the Cyclones’ opponents, with his ability as both a scorer and distributor leading to advantageous situations for he and his teammates.

If there’s been any issue for Kane it’s been his proficiency from beyond the arc, as he made just 25% of his three-pointers prior to the game against Boise State. With that in mind the Broncos sagged off of Kane in the first half, and in ball screen situations the defender went under the screen.

In the first half the results worked in favor of the Broncos, as Kane scored ten points but needed eight shots (making three) to do so. And as a team the Cyclones shot just 31.2% from the field in the first half, as they failed to convert many of the open looks they were able to create.

But Kane and his teammates adjusted in the second half, shooting 50% from the field on their way to the 70-66 victory. Kane (23 points, five rebounds) was one of four Iowa State players to finish in double figures, and the way in which Boise State attempted to defend him is something he’ll likely see more of as the season wears on. With that being the case, Kane’s 4-for-6 night from deep has the potential to be an important step forward if he can build on that.

Another area of importance for Iowa State was their work on the offensive glass, as they rebounded 38.9% of their missed shots. The last of those came with nine seconds remaining and the Cyclones leading by four, with Dustin Hogue’s effort essentially sealing the outcome. Iowa State entered the game ranked 300th in offensive rebounding percentage, so while they do have proficient rebounders (led by Hogue and Melvin Ejim) this is not an area of strength. It was against Boise State, and the 16-5 edge in second chance points was a key factor on Wednesday night.

Rebounding will be key for Iowa State in the Big 12, especially when considering the size at Baylor and Kansas. But the most important factor moving forward could end up being Kane’s ability to knock down perimeter shots, thus keeping teams honest. He was able to do so against Boise State, and the end result was a Diamond Head Classic title.

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