A three‑guard approach
The Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball program is entering a transitional phase as the roster loses three pivotal contributors: Tamin Lipsey, Milan Momcilovic and Joshua Jefferson. Their departures leave significant voids in scoring, defense and playmaking that the coaching staff must address before the new season begins.
Four players from last season's rotation are set to return, including Killyan Toure, Jamarion Batemon, Dominykas Pleta and Blake Buchanan. Their experience provides continuity and a foundation upon which the new lineup can build.
Head coach T.J. Otzelberger will lean on a three‑guard starting unit, a configuration highlighted by analyst James Fletcher III of One3. The backcourt will feature transfer Jaquan Johnson, who arrives from the Bradley Braves, and Jamarion Batemon, both expected to bring defensive intensity and versatility.
Johnson, a two‑way impact player and recent Missouri Valley Defensive Player of the Year, is slated to replace Lipsey's production, while Batemon steps into the role vacated by Momcilovic, offering a blend of size and defensive skill.
In the frontcourt, the Cyclones will pair returning forward Blake Buchanan with newcomer Singleton, a borderline top‑100 prospect who was pursued as a replacement for Jefferson in the transfer portal. The duo aims to add rebounding and interior presence.
Despite concerns about perimeter size and three‑point shooting, the new lineup is expected to set the tone for every game, according to Fletcher's projection. The blend of returning veterans and impact transfers creates a narrative of renewal that could define the Cyclones' identity in the coming months.