The ISU women’s basketball team won its first of two exhibition games last Thursday. With some key changes, the Cyclones will have one last chance for major adjustments before the regular season begins. 

One key topic that has plagued the team slightly this preseason has been injury and illness. While it hasn’t hindered the team drastically, it’s something the team is dealing with. 

ISU coach Bill Fennelly said sophomore guard Nikki Moody will in fact not start Tuesday due to a viral infection. With Moody out for the second exhibition game, a starting spot will be filled by one of two players.

“Either Emiah Bingley or Elly Arganbright will start in her place, but we’ll decide that after practice [Monday],” Fennelly said.

Moody has not practiced since Nov. 2.

Bingley had just two points in her debut as a Cyclone on Thursday against Northwest Missouri State. However, Bingley said she is confident to take on the role.

“It was mixed emotions,” Bingley said of her first performance. “Nervous at first, but I settled in a little bit. The shot was a little iffy, but we’re going to take care of that.”

Also out for the first two exhibition games has been newcomer Madison Baier, who has been out in the preseason with an ankle injury.

“She’s on a bike — training for the Tour de France she’s on the bike so much,” Fennelly said. “But she won’t dress. She’s still a long way from being in a situation where she can practice.”

A decision to redshirt or sit Baier for the coming season is still to be decided. 

Senior Anna Prins said the teams the Cyclones play in the first half of the season can drastically change once they reach Big 12 competition. 

“The first half of the season we play a lot of shorter teams,” Prins said. “So for me, keeping the ball high, continuing to work on rebounding … and trying to just work on things that will help the team.”

Prins is the tallest player on the women’s team, listed at 6-foot-7. 

The Cyclones are set to take on Fennelly’s alma mater, William Penn, on Tuesday evening. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Hilton Coliseum.