Iowa State’s Season Is Over—Five Thoughts

1. They made it interesting.

As was often true of this year’s Iowa State team, the Cyclones did not fully let their opponents run away. The outcome was never very likely to be different, but at the end of the game, it was at least worth it for ISU to do some fouling. They were within fouling territory.

2. Rasir Bolton gave it a good effort.

The injured guard made his minutes count. Bolton showed flashes of brilliance all year. He’s a good player. Whether he can be good enough to lead Iowa State to success next year (assuming he sticks around) is one of many big questions.

3. Steve Prohm…?

The biggest of those questions is, of course, Prohm. It’s hard to read the tea leaves here, and it’s hard to have much of an opinion on what should be done. Prohm’s always seemed to be a good guy during his time in Ames, and Fred Hoiberg isn’t exactly walking through that door. But 0-19 against Big 12 competition, and 0-21 against all power conference competition, and 0-22 against all power conference competition and South Dakota State…that’s outrageously bad.

The case against Prohm revolves around the overall record this year and the absence of something pointing firmly towards renaissance next year. The case for keeping Prohm revolves around the cost of his buyout, the idea that Iowa State could have a hard time finding a better option, and the roster’s young nature. Make of it all what you will.

4. Ouch.

We knew Iowa State might have a bad year. We did not conceive of how bad it could be. We really did not conceive of it. And while it’s a relief to see it end, there’s still the sadness of knowing it won’t change now. It’s what it was. And ever it shall be.

5. The Barking Crow and Iowa State

I mentioned this around New Year’s, but we don’t know what level of coverage of individual teams at The Barking Crow is the right fit, or which teams are the right fit. Anyway, if you have strong feelings, let us know, because it’ll likely influence our decision about whether and how to cover ISU hoops (and football) in the future.

Thanks, everybody. And better luck next time to us all.