During their three-game Big 12 win streak, the Cyclones eclipsed the 70-point mark in all three wins.

The win streak and the streak of 70-plus point offensive outputs ended Saturday with 65-62 loss at No. 14 Oklahoma. The offensive outbursts were rare this season because this Cyclones team (16-6, 4-4 Big 12) has made their presence more well-known on the defensive end.

“We’re not an offensive powerhouse, we’re not going to outscore you so we better guard you,” said coach Bill Fennelly. “Defensive field goal percentage is always a very good indication of your team defense.”

Opponents only make 33.8 percent of shots against Iowa State, the second best opponent’s field goal percentage in the Big 12 and 10th best in the nation.

“We don’t get as much credit as some teams for being a good defensive team because we don’t press and maul you and steal the ball,” Fennelly said.

In their 18 games prior to the three-game win streak, the Cyclones had only scored 70 or more points three times, but had allowed less than 50 on nine occasions.

“We don’t score the ball very well so we can’t rely on us to have 20 or 30 points among all of us, so I think it’s very important to us,” said senior guard Kelsey Bolte of the defense. “If we’re supposed to not let a girl shoot threes then that’s what we’re going to do. We’re not going to let you shoot any threes.”

Despite losing to the Sooners on Saturday, Iowa State allowed only one made field goal in the last 11:08 as they battled back from a 10 point deficit.

“I think that [our defense has] allowed us to stay in games,” Fennelly said. “I’ve always believed that if you make people shoot perimeter shots and don’t foul a lot you’re going to win a lot.”

Defense will be crucial in Saturday’s game at Kansas (15-8, 2-7 Big 12) especially because it’s on the road. The Cyclones are giving up 66.7 points per away game in Big 12 play while only giving up 54.5 points per game at Hilton Coliseum.

Tip time for the game is set for 7 p.m. in Lawrence, Kan.