Summer workouts at Iowa State have taken on a distinct rhythm this year, led by head coach Bill Fennelly. The sessions blend on‑court drills with deliberate team‑building exercises designed to forge personal connections among a squad that has been dramatically altered from the previous season.
The Cyclones lost most of their star contributors from the 2025‑26 NCAA Tournament run, including Audi Crooks and Addy Brown. Only three veterans — Arianna Jackson, Evangelia Paulk, and Freya Jensen — return, while the program added two freshmen, Smyle Zhang and Tjasa Turnsek, through the transfer portal.
A New Tactical Identity
Injuries have further complicated the picture. Jackson is nursing a foot problem, Ashleigh Connor battles a knee issue, and Macy Comito deals with her own knee concerns, limiting the time each can spend on the floor. In response, Fennelly is pivoting from a traditional post‑heavy system to a guard‑centric approach that leans on spacing, three‑point shooting, and versatile post players who can handle multiple roles.
Off the court, the team has embraced activities that go beyond basketball. Pool time, visits to the Fennelly family home in Clear Lake, Iowa, and shared storytelling about family backgrounds have become staples of the summer schedule, all aimed at strengthening chemistry before the first game.
The workouts concluded on August 7, but the roster remains in flux. New players are already on campus and participating in practice, yet the coaching staff acknowledges that the starting lineup may still shift up until the season opener, reflecting the dynamic nature of the team.