Loud screams will frame No. 14 Iowa State's season opener against St. Thomas

AMES — Thousands of screaming children will serve as a rambunctious symphony for the Iowa State women in Monday’s 11 a.m. season opener against St. Thomas (Minn.) at Hilton Coliseum.

It’s a time-honored early-season tradition for the No. 14 Cyclones — and it’s also music to their ringing ears.

“(It’s) awesome,” said ISU guard Kenzie Hare, who is fully healthy after missing most of last season because of a chronic hip injury. “The kids definitely don’t care who scores, but it’s gonna be loud. These games are always super-fun and the kids are just grateful to be there, and when we get to interact with them after the game, that’s my favorite part.”

Children from across the state are bussed in for the game and enjoy free tickets. Then they let loose. The Cyclones are a preseason top-15 game for the second straight season and expect to play faster than they have in years.

That’s because transfer point guard Jada Williams is an elite driver, as is freshman Reese Beaty, who should hit the floor running despite her young age.

“Jada and Reese are downhill players,” said ISU head coach Bill Fennelly, who's entering his 31st season leading the team. “They want to go in that direction, so we’ve learned — or I should say I’ve tried to learn — to live with some interesting decisions, and shots, and passes. We will try to play a little faster, especially in those moments (All-American center) Audi (Crooks) is not in the game.”

So loud screams will meet swift action as ISU starts its season.

“I’m gonna do whatever I can,” Hare said. “I’m gonna play as hard as I can.”

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