Under head coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Iowa State Cyclones have become a fixture in the NCAA tournament, earning a berth in each of the past five seasons. Their consistent performance has turned the program into a reliable mid‑major force, blending disciplined defense with an up‑tempo offense.
The upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, however, will test that momentum. Key contributors such as Tamin Lipsey, Joshua Jefferson and Nate Heise have exhausted their eligibility, while sophomore standout Milan Momcilovic announced his intention to enter the 2026 NBA Draft after a breakout year. Their exits leave sizable gaps in scoring, playmaking and interior presence.
To fill those voids, the Cyclones have turned to the transfer portal, welcoming five newcomers who bring a blend of experience and athleticism. Among them, Killyan Toure is poised to build on a strong freshman showing, while Taj Manning adds grit and rebounding to the frontcourt. Returning players like Blake Buchanan and Dominykas Pleta provide continuity, and veteran guard Jaquan Johnson is expected to assume a larger role after Lipsey’s departure.
The Athletic’s latest top‑25 poll places Iowa State at No. 23, reflecting cautious optimism among analysts. The team’s defensive identity, anchored by Johnson’s perimeter pressure and the shot‑blocking instincts of the new frontcourt pieces, is expected to remain a strong suit.
Coach Otzelberger has emphasized flexibility, noting that the roster’s depth allows him to mix and match lineups throughout the season. ‘We have a diverse depth chart,’ he said, ‘and we’ll lean on the strengths of each player to keep opponents guessing.’
Looking Ahead
The schedule will test the Cyclones early, with non‑conference matchups against traditional powerhouses that could serve as a litmus test for their revamped roster. Success in those games would not only boost confidence but also solidify their standing in the national conversation.
Fans and alumni alike are hopeful that the program’s upward trajectory will continue, even as the team navigates the inevitable challenges of roster turnover. With a strong coaching staff, a clear defensive philosophy, and a recruiting pipeline that emphasizes both talent and character, Iowa State appears poised to remain competitive in the Big 12 and beyond.