The Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball program is entering a pivotal offseason, with a wave of departures and staff changes that could reshape the team's outlook for the 2026‑27 campaign.
Offseason Turmoil
Four players — Tamin Lipsey, Joshua Jefferson and Nate Heise — have exhausted their eligibility, while sophomore guard Milan Momcilovic opted to transfer to the Kentucky Wildcats, leaving half of the rotation from the previous season vacant.
Head coach T.J. Otzelberger announced the addition of two new assistants to his staff, signaling a fresh approach to player development and tactical refinement.
Leadership Shifts
Athletic director Jamie Pollard, a long‑time architect of the program, revealed his retirement, raising speculation about Otzelberger’s own future and the stability of the coaching leadership.
The moves come as the Cyclones seek to maintain competitiveness in the Big 12 while rebuilding around younger talent.
A Rising Role
Amid the turbulence, sophomore guard Killyan Toure has been working through a shoulder issue, but medical updates suggest he is making steady progress and is expected to assume a larger role next season.
During his freshman year, Toure averaged 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.5 steals in 25.3 minutes per game, numbers that coach Otzelberger believes can expand with increased responsibility.
The combination of veteran departures, strategic staff additions and Toure’s emerging presence sets the stage for a season that could define the next chapter of Iowa State basketball.