The Ole Miss Rebels have successfully advanced to the Sweet 16 after a commanding performance against the Iowa State Cyclones. This marks their first appearance in this stage since 2001 and only the second time in program history. Their journey continues as they head to Atlanta, ready to face their next opponent. The team's shooting prowess was on full display, dominating with high percentages from various ranges and effectively managing turnovers. Additionally, their balanced offensive strategy propelled them forward, showcasing multiple players contributing significantly to the scoreboard.

Shooting Precision: The Key to Victory

The Rebels' exceptional shooting performance played a pivotal role in securing their victory over the Cyclones. With impressive accuracy across different shooting categories, Ole Miss set an aggressive pace that the Cyclones struggled to match. Their relentless focus throughout the game kept them ahead, allowing no room for a comeback from the opposing side.

Achieving a remarkable shooting efficiency, Ole Miss demonstrated their ability to maintain a consistent offensive rhythm for the entire duration of the game. They achieved a field goal percentage of 58.3%, 57.9% from beyond the arc, and 83.3% at the free-throw line. In contrast, Iowa State managed only 44% from the floor, 31.6% from three-point range, and 61.9% from the charity stripe. This disparity in shooting effectiveness allowed the Rebels to build and sustain leads, reaching up to 25 points in the second half, ensuring their dominance from start to finish.

Balanced Offense and Ball Control

Beyond their shooting skills, the Rebels relied heavily on a well-rounded offensive approach and effective ball control. A diverse scoring distribution among players highlighted their team's strength and adaptability under pressure. These elements were crucial in maintaining their lead and overcoming late-game challenges.

Five Ole Miss players scored in double figures, providing a robust offensive foundation that overwhelmed the Cyclones, who could only muster contributions from three players surpassing the ten-point mark. Sean Pedulla led the charge with 20 points, supported by Jaemyn Brakefield's 19, Malik Dia's 18, Matthew Murrell's 15, and Jaylen Murray's 11. Furthermore, their commitment to minimizing turnovers—committing just eight while forcing 15 from Iowa State—translated into 18 critical points off turnovers. This strategic advantage helped neutralize any potential Cyclone surges, solidifying the Rebels' position as contenders moving forward.