The Cyclones have hit the crunch-time of the season. The team is in the midst of a four-game run during eight days, the first of which was played against Kansas State on Sunday, which was an eight-point ISU win.

Next, Iowa State (17-7, 5-5 Big 12) will hit the road to take on Texas Tech on Wednesday, followed by a return home to Hilton to take on Colorado on Saturday and then Texas two days after that.

“Right now it seems like back-to-back games,” said junior Chassidy Cole. “It just seems like one after another; they’re coming in so fast, and pretty soon it will be over.”

Coach Bill Fennelly said he didn’t think he had ever done four games in eight days in the Big 12 and that it was an odd situation.

However, with a Big 12 record of 5-5 this next stretch of games could be a determining factor for Iowa State’s chance in the NCAA tournament.

“It’s fun to be tired and fun to be grouchy this way in February when you’re playing for something,” Fennelly said. “That’s what we’re doing, we’re playing for something.”

Texas Tech (17-7, 4-6) will also be playing for something Wednesday as the team remains in the middle of Big 12 standings along with Iowa State, Kansas State and Texas.

The Red Raiders are heading into the matchup with Iowa State after snapping a six-game losing streak Wednesday. The team beat Colorado in convincing fashion, stomping the Buffaloes 72-44 on the road.

“They’re coming off a big win and excited about the possibilities,” Fennelly said. “I’m sure they’re looking at their schedule wondering how they can get to 8-8 and I’m sure they’re looking at us as a possibility to move one step closer to where they want to be.”

In their win against Colorado, the Red Raiders forced 28 Buffalo turnovers, something Iowa State has struggled with in the past.

“We’re going to have to do some things well, like take care of the ball,” Fennelly said.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday in Lubbock, Texas.