Iowa State is gearing up for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball campaign, bringing together a blend of experienced transfers and promising freshmen.
The roster features five transfers and three incoming freshmen, including names such as Jaquan Johnson, Ryan Prather Jr., Leon Bond III, Tre Singleton, Taj Manning, Tamin Lipsey, Nate Heise, Milan Momcilovic, Joshua Jefferson, Yusef Gray Jr., Christian Wiggins, Dorian Rinaldo‑Komlan, and the returning core.
A strategic schedule
The Cyclones will open the season with a series of home‑and‑home battles against traditional powerhouses, notably Kansas and Oklahoma State, while also welcoming West Virginia to Ames.
A notable shift in the non‑conference slate sees Iowa State steering clear of long‑distance road trips to Tucson and Provo, instead hosting Arizona and BYU, and also bringing Cincinnati to the schedule after the Bearcats posted a victory over the Cyclones last year.
Road travel will still be a test, with matchups against Houston, Texas Tech and several other Big 12 foes promising tough environments for the team.
Overall, the 18‑game Big 12 slate offers a mixture of familiar rivalries and fresh challenges, setting the stage for a season that could redefine the Cyclones’ standing in one of the nation’s most competitive conferences.