The Iowa State Cyclones have reached the NCAA tournament for the fifth consecutive season under head coach T.J. Otzelberger, a streak that underscores the program’s steady rise over the past few years and culminated in a Sweet 16 appearance despite the loss of star forward Joshua Jefferson in the opening game.
The Cost of a Missing Presence
Jefferson was a two‑way force, ranking among the nation’s most versatile big men, yet his lack of rim‑protection proved costly; opposing squads shot 65 percent at the basket when he was on the floor and 72 percent when both Blake Buchanan and Dominykas Pleta were absent.
Without reliable shot‑blocking or a strong defensive anchor, the Cyclones struggled to deter drives, prompting the coaching staff to prioritize size and shot‑blocking in the offseason.
New Faces in the Paint
The roster will welcome transfers Taj Manning and Leon Bond III, both celebrated for their ability to alter or block shots, as well as freshman Dorian Rinaldo‑Komlan, whose athleticism and defensive instincts have already drawn praise from analysts.
In addition, the return of Buchanan and Pleta, who missed significant time last year, is expected to restore the interior stability that was missing during Jefferson’s absence.
With these additions, Otzelberger believes the Cyclones can finally close the gap on opponents’ paint efficiency and mount a legitimate run at a national title, a goal that has eluded the program for decades.