A schedule taking shape
Iowa State is finalising its non‑conference slate for the 2026‑27 season, a plan that blends marquee neutral‑site events with a handful of home‑court buy games at Hilton Coliseum.
The centerpiece of the road portion will be the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas, a high‑profile tournament that brings together some of the nation’s most celebrated programs.
In addition to the Vegas showcase, the Cyclones have secured spots in the NABC Hall of Fame Series, further cementing their commitment to challenging themselves against elite competition.
Back in Ames, the team will host several buy games at Hilton Coliseum, using the venue as a testing ground and a way to reward loyal fans with marquee matchups.
Details of the schedule were uncovered through public records by the outlet Cyclone Alert, giving fans an early glimpse of what to expect.
Implications for the program
The mix of neutral‑site contests and home buy games reflects a strategic shift aimed at boosting recruiting visibility and providing valuable experience before conference play.