In the first matchup of the Hall of Fame Classic, the Utah State Aggies secured a 77-69 win over the Iowa Hawkeyes on Friday night.
Despite limited fan support making the trip from Logan, Utah, the team delivered on both ends of the court, defeating a Big Ten opponent in a game that could carry significant implications later in the season.
Here are three takeaways from Utah State’s quality win over Iowa:
Rebounding
One of the biggest factors in the Aggies’ victory was their dominance on the boards. Outrebounding Iowa 47-31, they were led by 6-foot-3 guard Mason Falslev, who pulled down 12 rebounds. Contributions from unexpected sources were key, as Utah State’s two bigs, Isaac Johnson and Aubin Gateretse, combined for just six rebounds.
Mason Falslev
Falslev, a true sophomore in his second year, has proven to be a valuable secondary option alongside Ian Martinez, who struggled with foul trouble in this game. In perhaps his most impressive performance of the season, Falslev scored 25 points, showcasing his versatility. His highlights included a clutch 3-pointer as the shot clock expired and a one-handed dunk to cap the night.
Limiting Iowa’s 3-Point Shooting
Coming into the game as one of the nation’s top 3-point shooting teams, the Hawkeyes faced a stiff defensive effort from the Aggies. Under head coach Jerrod Calhoun’s game plan, Utah State limited Iowa to 19.2% shooting from beyond the arc, while the Aggies converted 33.3% of their 3-point attempts.
Up next, Utah State will take on the undefeated St. Bonaventure Bonnies (5-0) on Nov. 28 in a neutral-site contest in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, as part of the NIT Tip-Off.
