A demanding non‑conference slate
Iowa State’s men’s basketball program has unveiled a 14‑game non‑conference schedule that stretches from mid‑October through the end of December, culminating in a three‑day showcase in Las Vegas where the Players Era tournament will feature elite college teams and NIL prize money.
The Cyclones will enjoy nine home contests and five away games, a balance that reflects the coaching staff’s desire to build momentum before Big 12 play begins.
The season opens on October 18 with a home matchup against Creighton, a team the Cyclones have faced 33 times and trail 18‑15 in the all‑time series.
Just a week later, Iowa State travels to Evanston, Illinois, to meet Northwestern, marking the first leg of a road swing that will also take them to Sioux Falls for a neutral‑site clash with Memphis on November 2.
November brings a three‑game homestand anchored by Southern Miss on November 6, followed by a first‑ever meeting with Niagara on November 15, adding fresh opponents to the roster.
The highlight of the early season is the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas, scheduled for November 26‑28, where the Cyclones will join a field of top programs and compete for NIL prize money.
December opens with a showdown against Purdue on December 6, a game that follows an 81‑58 upset victory that gave the team confidence heading into conference play.
Later in the month the Cyclones will test the Iowa Corn Cy‑Hawk Series rivalry with the University of Iowa on December 10, before heading to Kansas City to meet Missouri State for the first time on December 18.
The non‑conference slate wraps up on December 29 with a contest against New Hampshire, after which the team will turn its full attention to Big 12 competition.
Returning veteran Killyan Toure will provide experience and depth as the Cyclones navigate this demanding stretch.