MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Cyclones got back to winning ways against Kansas State after a 1-3 start to Big 12 play. Iowa State tamed the Wildcats and took home a 76-63 win to improve to 2-3 in Big 12 play. 

Here are the five things you need to know from the game:

1. Ashton gets his shot

Hallice Cooke served a one game suspension for what ISU coach Steve Prohm described as not doing the things Prohm asked him to do, narrowing Iowa State’s regular rotation to just six players.

Former walk-on Jordan Ashton, who typically does not play unless the game is a blowout, got an opportunity to step up and fill the void left by Cooke. Ashton cashed in on that opportunity. Ashton scored five points in 19 minutes of action and provided solid defense at the top of ISU’s 2-3 zone. 

2. Zone defense 

Iowa State switched to a 2-3 zone defense in the first half and it payed off big time for the Cyclones. The zone was huge in allowing Iowa State to hold Kansas State scoreless for over seven minutes while going on a 15-0 run to crack the game wide open in the first half.

Prohm was pleased with the defensive effort in zone, but said that doesn’t mean they will play a lot of zone against Oklahoma. He said they will play zone at times throughout the season when he feels like it gives them an advantage.

3. Back to winning

It’s been a rough start to ISU’s Big 12 season, as the Cyclones dropped three of the first four conference games. The fan base can breathe in a sigh of relief as Iowa State found a way to get back on the winning track.

The Cyclones scored a much-needed win to ease some doubts about where the season is headed. The Cyclones displayed improved defense, better ball movement and seemingly more controlled offense. The Cyclones have now improved to 2-3 in conference play.

4. Prohm’s timeouts

Prohm had previously said that he wants to make better use of his timeouts after being criticized for not using them to end opponents runs in past games. Prohm used timeouts in key situations against Kansas State, and his team seemed to respond well.

Prohm called a timeout when Kansas State cut the deficit to five points with 10 minutes left in the second half. Iowa State responded by going on a 7-0 run after the timeout and bolstering there lead once again.

5. Set up for Big Monday

The Cyclones desperately needed a win, because it doesn’t get any easier from here. Iowa State will head home and have a quick turnaround as Oklahoma will come to Ames for a Big Monday showdown. 

The Sooners are currently the No. 2 team in the country, but when the new polls are released on Monday, Oklahoma is expected to be the new No. 1 team. Current No. 1 Kansas lost to West Virginia this week.