The Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball team has launched its season as an undeniable national contender, quickly erasing any preseason doubts about their roster turnover. Now ranked No. 15, the 6-0 Cyclones have demonstrated elite two-way capability, highlighted by an outstanding run in the Players Era tournament. Their gutsy 83-82 victory over No. 14 St. John’s was a critical test, proving they can win gritty, high-stakes games against ranked competition. This was immediately followed by a commanding 78-60 revenge win over Creighton, a statement victory where ISU dominated the paint (52-20 advantage) and forced 17 turnovers, reflecting Coach T.J. Otzelberger’s relentless defensive DNA. These marquee results, along with a dominant 96-80 win over Mississippi State, firmly establish Iowa State as a Big 12 frontrunner. The team’s rapid success is rooted in a seamless blend of experience and new blood. Senior leaders Tamin Lipsey and Joshua Jefferson, alongside junior sharpshooter Milan Momcilovic, form a proven, potent core. Crucially, the newcomers have contributed instantly; freshman Killyan Toure stepped into the point guard role during the Creighton game and responded with a game-high 20 points. This demonstrated depth, combined with relentless pressure defense, signals a legitimate threat. Iowa State’s early dominance suggests they are not just aiming for another NCAA Tournament bid, but for a deep national run and Big 12 supremacy. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Omaha Steaks Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale. And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout. Wayfair Don’t miss out on early Black Friday deals. Head to https://Wayfair.com now to shop Wayfair’s Black Friday sale for up to 70% off.Sale ends December 7th. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
