As the season reaches the homestretch, the Big 12 standings are getting tight and the ISU volleyball team needs every win they can get in order to secure a spot in the tournament.

Whether competing against a top-ranked opponent, or the last place team in the conference, the Cyclones plan to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.

“We need every win we can possibly get,” said junior setter Kaylee Manns. “It’s important, showing everyone that we are one of the top programs.”

The Cyclones will be on the road Wednesday night against Texas Tech. Iowa State (15-9) travels to Texas to compete with the Red Raiders (5-24), who have yet to see a conference win. Earlier this season, Iowa State swept Texas Tech 3-0 in Ames.

“We proved that we were the better team last time and I think we need to do that again,” Manns said.

Although Tech hasn’t defeated a team in the Big 12 this season, coach Christy Johnson said they should not be overlooked.

“You just never know what can happen,” Johnson said. “Maybe they haven’t won a match in the Big 12, it doesn’t mean they’re not capable of beating you if you’re not ready.”

Texas Tech showed improvement, taking Colorado into five sets, despite their eventual loss. The Cyclones also suffered a loss to the Buffaloes earlier in the season.

“We need to come with the attitude that they are a better team now and that we have to play better than last time,” Manns said.

The Cyclones have a conference record of 1-5 on the road. The road game at Tech may be a tough one, considering the size of the gym in Lubbock.

“It’s about creating your own energy and being ready to play,” Johnson said.

In Iowa State’s previous matchup with the Red Raiders, Texas Tech was in a tough spot, with several players just coming off suspension.

“All the teams have been getting better the second time around,” said Kelsey Peterson. “Every win counts.”

The Cyclones’ Victoria Henson led the team in kills with 16 against the Raiders at home early in the season. Henson hit .652 on the night. Iowa State hit .441 overall against Texas Tech.

The Red Raiders’ middle blocker serves as a key player in Tech’s attack. Freshman Amanda Dowdy led the Raiders in kills against the Cyclones in the previous matchup in Ames. Dowdy recently notched 19 kills against Colorado. The freshman middle is tenth in the Big 12 in hitting percentage, with .301.

“She’s a really nice athlete,” Johnson said. “I thinks she’s going to be a great, great player.”

Iowa States comes into the match with a fourth place spot in the conference. Each win is important in securing the Cyclones a spot in the NCAA tournament.

“I see this match as very important for us,” Johnson said. “We’re in a really good spot, in terms of the conference standings.”