The Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball program is entering a pivotal offseason, having lost its three leading scorers from the previous campaign.
Milan Momcilovic, who topped the scoring charts last year, has transferred to the Kentucky Wildcats, while guard Joshua Jefferson was selected 28th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. Tamin Lipsey, another key contributor, signed with the Indiana Pacers as an undrafted free agent, and forward Nate Heise has exhausted his eligibility.
A New Direction for Iowa State Basketball
Coaching changes accompany the player movement. Tim Buckley and Allan Hanson have been announced as new assistant coaches, bringing fresh strategic perspectives. Chuck Ruffing, formerly with the Western Illinois Leathernecks, joins as an assistant coach, and graduate assistants Richardson Maitre and Fletcher McGarvey round out the staff.
Among the returning figures, Diante Garrett has taken on the role of Director of Player Development, and Thomas Pollard will serve as Director of Recruiting, bringing veteran insight to player relations and talent acquisition.
These adjustments signal a comprehensive rebuild as the Cyclones aim to maintain competitiveness within the Big 12 and pursue a deep run in the NCAA tournament next season.