The Iowa State women are gearing up for their most significant test yet on Thanksgiving. They will take on the defending national champion South Carolina as a part of the Elevance Health Women’s Fort Myers Tip-Off. This game is just one part of a series that showcases some of the top teams in the country. The Cyclones (5 - 1) are set to meet Middle Tennessee on Saturday. After stumbling on the road last week against Northern Iowa, Iowa State got back on track this past Sunday with a win over Drake. Star sophomore Audi Crooks had a remarkable double-double and even hit the game-winning shot to give the Cyclones an 80 - 78 victory.

Key Players and Their Stats

Audi Crooks is averaging just under 22 points per game along with 7.5 rebounds. Addy Brown is adding 16 points and nearly nine rebounds to the team's efforts. Mackenzie Hare and Sydney Harris are both contributing over eight points per game. Emily Ryan has dished out an impressive 54 assists in just six games.The Gamecocks (5 - 1) had their 43 - game win streak snapped over the weekend against UCLA by a score of 77 - 62. Te - Hina Paopao, Chloe Kitts, and MiLaysia Fulwiley are all averaging double figures for head coach Dawn Staley, who now ranks fourth.

Previous Meeting and Context

Iowa State and South Carolina have only faced each other once before. In 2020, the Gamecocks won 83 - 65 in Ames from Hilton Coliseum. At that time, South Carolina was ranked No. 1 and featured Aliyah Boston. That game was part of the SEC/Big 12 Challenge.

Details on the Upcoming Game

Here are the crucial details on how to watch Iowa State vs. South Carolina on Thursday, Nov. 28. Who: Iowa State vs. South Carolina in women’s basketball action. When: 12:30 p.m. CT | Thursday, November 28. Where: Suncoast Arena | Fort Myers, Florida. Live Stream: Stream Iowa State vs. South Carolina live on fuboTV (Start your free trial). TV Channel: FOX. Betting Odds: Not available.Our Prediction: South Carolina 88, Iowa State 80. South Carolina's experience and talent give them the edge in this highly anticipated matchup. They have a strong roster with players like Paopao, Kitts, and Fulwiley, who have been performing at a high level. Iowa State, on the other hand, will rely on the leadership of Crooks and the contributions of their other key players. The game will be a battle between two strong teams, and it's sure to be a thrilling encounter.In the first half, Iowa State will need to focus on their defense and limit South Carolina's scoring opportunities. Crooks and the rest of the team will need to be aggressive on offense and convert their chances. South Carolina will likely come out strong and try to establish an early lead. The second half will be crucial as both teams fight for the win. Iowa State will need to make adjustments and find a way to close the gap. If they can play with confidence and execute their game plan, they have a chance to pull off an upset. However, South Carolina's experience and depth make them the favorites. It will be a closely contested game, and fans can expect a lot of excitement on the court.