Penn State watched its 48-37 halftime lead wither away last Wednesday against No. 1 Michigan State, then dropped a 10-point second half advantage against Iowa (12-2, 1-0 Big Ten), allowing both squads to come back and win conference matchups.
"We need to be focused and not let that happen again," Crispin said. "We'll be better because of this.
"It won't happen again, I promise you."
Crispin couldn't have asked much more of himself, as he tied his Big Ten career-high with 35 points, including six 3-point goals and 13 points from the free throw line, not missing a foul shot all game.
Iowa can be thankful for the stellar second half play of junior Luke Recker, who scored 15 of his 20 points in the second half, including two free throws and a jumpshot in the final 54 seconds.
Iowa men's basketball coach Steve Alford said he was more impressed with Recker's ability to find the open man than his ability to score.
The second-year coach said he knew Recker would have a size advantage on Penn State's defenders, but his ability to find a better shot for his teammates was the key in the Hawkeyes win.
The Iowa backcourt and its bench were the main factors in its victory, as Recker and guard Dean Oliver combined for 38 points, 10 assists and only one turnover.
But the bench played an even bigger role as the Hawkeyes clobbered Penn State, outscoring the Lions 30-4 and boasting a 10-rebound advantage.
Penn State senior guard Titus Ivory struggled all day, as he only scored five points and had three assists. The senior guard was in foul trouble and his tentativeness was evident on the floor, as it seemed he never got in the flow of the game.
"It's tough because we blew opportunities," Cline-Heard said. "As long as we keep our composure, we'll be alright."
The Lions don't have a long time to get back on track, as they travel to Ohio State on Wednesday night and host Northwestern on Saturday night.
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