New to the roster this season, forward Addy Brown has had a big impact on Iowa State’s success. The freshman led the way for the Cyclones as they won in their return to Hilton Coliseum 85-58 over North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW).

Having not played at home in nearly two weeks, many players were excited to be in front of the home crowd again. Brown received a big ovation from the fans at the end of the game.

“It was special,” Brown said. “Every time we play here it’s a really important thing that we play hard.”

With a good showing in the past few games, Brown showed once again that she can be a leader for the Cyclones. She impacted the game both offensively and defensively to lead Iowa State to its second straight victory.

Brown had her second double-double of the season with 24 points and 10 assists, both personal bests for the freshman. Brown led both scoring and assists for Iowa State in its win.

Her scoring ability was all around, shooting over 50% in the game with the Cyclones shooting 51% in the game. Brown shot 9-for-14 from the field and 4-for-5 from beyond the arc.

“She scored it at the block, she scored it at the three-point line and facilitated her teammates,” head coach Bill Fennelly said. “I don’t think anyone in our building is surprised at some of the stuff she’s doing.”

Defensively, Brown grabbed four rebounds and had a steal and a block. As a whole, Iowa State had 40 defensive rebounds, nearly doubling UNCW’s total.

The Seahawks were held to a shooting percentage of 28%, going 20-for-72 on the day. The defensive effort of the Cyclones paved the way for their victory.

Even as a freshman, Brown’s role at Iowa State is a big one. Her ability to score, defend and facilitate is seen by Fennelly.

“Her basketball IQ is ridiculously high,” Fennelly said. “She comes from a family that understands the college game. Her sister is a great player too, so this whole world is not new to her.”

Brown played a bigger role in the game due to Arianna Jackson being out with an illness. Fennelly said Jackson is expected to return later in the week when Iowa State hosts Iowa.

At times, Brown played point guard later in the game due to the absence of Jackson and was a factor everywhere on the floor. She played 34 minutes in the game which was the most of any Cyclone.

“She embraces it,” Fennelly said. “She’s not Bridget [Carleton] or Ashley Joens, but she could be, and I think that’s an exciting journey for all of us to follow. I know she’ll put in the work.”

Being compared to those star Cyclone players is high praise. Brown said it was nice to be listed on the same level as those players but wants to be her own self and create her own legacy.

“If they compare me to them, that’s awesome, but at the same time I’m my own player and will carve my own path,” Brown said.