Iowa State’s adjusted defensive rating, which measure points allowed per 100 possessions, was 99.2 after losing to Oklahoma on Feb. 9. In the six games since, the Cyclones have lowered that rating to 97.5.

The ISU defense has improved somewhat during its previous five games, despite failing to improve its 3-point defense specifically.

During the last five games these are the 3-point numbers of ISU opponents.

Oklahoma State: 8-of-18

Texas: 9-of-24

Baylor: 14-of-26

Kansas State: 5-of-19

Oklahoma: 6-of-24

Defensive free-throw rate is one of the statistics in which Iowa State performs well and is one the team is not willing to sacrifice in the name of better 3-point defense. Defensive free-throw rate, which is calculated by dividing free throws attempted by field goals attempted, measures how frequently opponents find themselves at the free-throw line. Iowa State’s defensive free-throw rate is 23.4, which is currently the third best mark in the nation.

To read about one way Iowa State is using these numbers to its advantage, click here.