The Lowdown

The ISU men’s basketball team rode an unexpected performance from senior forward Melvin Ejim, who was supposed to be sidelined until early December, to a 77-70 upset over No. 7 Michigan Sunday at Hilton Coliseum.

Ejim was considered a game-time decision leading up to the game and sported a brace during the game on his hyperextended left knee.

He finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and an assist on 8-14 shooting.

Sophomore guard Naz Long picked up where he left off, scoring 16 points on four 3-pointers and went 5-7 from the floor. 

Five total Cyclones finished in double figures.

X Factor

Melvin Ejim — The preseason All-Big 12 senior wasn’t expected to make his season debut until early December and was considered a game-time decision. 

Ejim finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and an assist on 8-14 shooting. 

Turning point

With 2:10 left, Iowa State only led Michigan 69-68, but a seven straight points made it 76-68 and the Cyclones had the game firmly in hand. 

Four straight on the run came from Georges Niang, followed by a free throw from Dustin Hogue and a pair of free throws from Naz Long. 

By the numbers

22 — Points Melvin EJim scored in his season debut.

5 — The number of Cyclones that finished in double figures for scoring. 

13/4 — The number of free throws the Cyclones made compared to the number Michigan made. 

29 — The number of field goals both teams made.

1-0 — Iowa State’s record when Dick Vitale calls a game.