Iowa State Cyclones have locked in three of the nation’s most coveted high school seniors for the Class of 2027, a recruiting coup that underscores the program’s rising momentum.
A versatile threat
Among them, Jack Kohnen, a 6‑foot‑5 forward from Slinger High School in Wisconsin, stands out for his rare blend of size, rebounding and playmaking.
Kohnen averaged roughly 11 to 12 rebounds per game last season, a statistic that reflects his ability to dominate the glass while also stepping out to score from the perimeter.
Coach T.J. Otzelberger praised the recruit’s basketball IQ, noting that Kohnen can assume the role of point guard, wing or post player depending on the team’s needs.
His adaptability was on full display during Slinger’s historic run to the state tournament and championship game, the first in school history, where his clutch performances helped the team punch above its weight.
The commitments also bring additional exposure for the program, bolstering its profile on the national recruiting circuit and attracting attention from brands such as Nike, which has long supported elite high school talent.
Analysts expect the influx of top‑100 talent to accelerate the Cyclones’ rebuild, potentially translating into earlier contention for conference titles and deeper NCAA tournament runs.