Draft Night Surprise
Tamin Lipsey, the Iowa State guard who entered the 2026 NBA Draft as a projected second‑rounder, was not among the 30 names called in the first round.
The news came as little surprise to those who have followed Lipsey’s four‑year tenure with the Cyclones, a period marked by consistent winning and deep tournament runs. Despite lacking elite size and athleticism, the 6‑foot‑1 playmaker carved out a reputation as a tenacious floor general.
A Defensive Anchor
What sets Lipsey apart is his defensive pedigree. He led the Big 12 in steals per game in two of his four seasons and sits atop the program’s all‑time steals list with 314 career takeaways.
His knack for disrupting passing lanes is complemented by an elite assist‑to‑turnover ratio; over his career he averaged 4.4 assists while turning the ball over just 1.9 times per game. Analysts have labeled him the best point‑of‑attack defender in college basketball heading into his senior year.
Coach T.J. Otzelberger, who guided the Cyclones during Lipsey’s final season, praised the guard’s poise under pressure, noting that Lipsey ‘plays bigger than his listed size with incredible strength and composure.’
Scouting reports also highlight Nate Ament, a fellow prospect who has drawn comparisons to Lipsey’s style of play, further underscoring the guard’s impact on the next generation of point guards.
Second‑Round Outlook
While the first round passed without a selection, Lipsey’s blend of defensive intensity and steady point‑guard skills has kept him on the radar of several NBA franchises eyeing a late‑round gem.
Teams are expected to evaluate him in the second round, weighing his ability to contribute immediately on defense and his proven leadership qualities. His collegiate record of never missing an NCAA tournament appearance and his track record of winning make him an attractive developmental prospect.
As the draft continues, Lipsey remains focused on preparing for the next step, confident that his defensive instincts and basketball IQ will translate to the professional game.