A Revamped Roster
The Iowa State Cyclones are gearing up for the 2026‑27 college basketball season, looking to build on the momentum generated by a memorable Sweet 16 run last year. Although the team fell to Tennessee in that round without their star forward Joshua Jefferson, the experience has left a clear imprint on the program’s outlook.
Head coach T.J. Otzelberger has embraced the transfer portal as a strategic tool, bringing in fresh talent while preserving the core that helped the Cyclones punch above their weight. The staff’s ability to blend newcomers with existing pieces has created a sense of continuity and optimism heading into the offseason.
Backcourt Dynamics
Among the returning pieces, guard Jamarion Batemon stands out for his scoring upside, while forward Killyan Toure brings a reputation as one of the nation’s top defensive guards. Both players logged significant minutes a season ago, with Toure starting the majority of games and Batemon providing a potent spark off the bench.
Blake Buchanan and Tamin Lipsey also return, adding depth at the wing and backcourt respectively. Their contributions were evident throughout the previous campaign, and the coaching staff expects them to assume larger roles as the team’s chemistry matures.
The Cyclones could field one of the most dynamic backcourts in the Big 12, with Batemon and Toure capable of handling primary ball‑handling duties. The competition for the starting point guard spot is expected to be fierce, but the coaching staff believes the duo’s complementary skill sets will elevate the team’s overall tempo.
Beyond individual talent, the program’s trajectory hinges on how quickly the new pieces mesh with the returning core. If the chemistry clicks, Iowa State could emerge as a serious contender for conference supremacy and a deep run in the NCAA tournament.