ST. LOUIS, Mo. (WMDJ) — Kentucky’s season came to an end Sunday with an 82-63 loss to Iowa State in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32.

The Wildcats started strong, building an early lead and controlling the pace in the first half. Kentucky led for much of the opening period, but Iowa State closed on a run and took a 31-30 lead into halftime.

The second half belonged to the Cyclones.

Iowa State’s defense took over, forcing 20 Kentucky turnovers and turning those into points on the other end. The pressure disrupted Kentucky’s offense and prevented the Wildcats from finding any consistent rhythm.

Kentucky also dealt with foul trouble early in the second half, limiting aggressiveness on both ends of the floor.

After holding Iowa State to 31 points in the first half, Kentucky struggled defensively after the break. The Cyclones scored more than 50 points in the second half and pulled away late.

With the loss, Kentucky’s season ends short of the Sweet 16. Attention now turns to the offseason as the program looks ahead to next year.