The Iowa State Cyclones burst onto the 2025‑26 season with a 16‑0 start that propelled them to the No. 2 spot in the national rankings, only to see their momentum stall when veteran forward Joshua Jefferson went down with an injury.
A Freshman’s Promise
Freshman guard Killyan Toure emerged as a defensive anchor, starting every game he played and patrolling multiple positions with poise. His ability to disrupt opponents became a cornerstone of the Cyclones’ early success.
Toure’s statistical line reflected a player still finding his offensive rhythm. He averaged 8.6 points, shot 31.3 percent from three‑point range and posted a 46 percent field‑goal percentage, numbers that hint at untapped upside.
The NCAA tournament offered a glimpse of what could be. In three games he tallied 44 points, including a 25‑point explosion in the opening round, underscoring his capacity to score when the moment demands.
Coaches and analysts alike agree that the next step for Toure is to translate his defensive impact into a more consistent offensive contribution. Doing so would not only bolster the Cyclones’ depth but also cement his status among the Big 12’s elite guards.