Cyclones on the Rise: From NIL Turmoil to NBA Draft Prospects
Iowa State's basketball program has transformed from a modest outfit into an NBA talent factory, driven by savvy coaching, community-backed NIL deals and a pipeline of future draftees.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning T.J. Otzelberger across Basketball.
Iowa State's basketball program has transformed from a modest outfit into an NBA talent factory, driven by savvy coaching, community-backed NIL deals and a pipeline of future draftees.

The Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball program, led by head coach T.J. Otzelberger, has achieved a five-year streak of NCAA tournament appearances and three Sweet 16 runs. A newly ranked No. 1 recruiting class featuring three four-star prospects signals a new era of ambition in Ames.

A historic recruiting class and a streak of March Madness appearances mark a new era for the Cyclones under T.J. Otzelberger.

Mike Boynton Jr., known for his defensive expertise and prior head‑coaching experience, is slated to lead Michigan basketball on an interim basis, with the program aiming to retain key players and navigate the upcoming transfer portal window.
Following Dusty May’s departure for the Dallas Mavericks, Michigan taps assistant coach Mike Boynton Jr. to lead the team on an interim basis, hoping his deep ties to the roster will preserve its national championship pedigree.

Dusty May’s departure after a national championship leaves the University of Michigan seeking a successor, with names like Billy Donovan, Nate Oats and others emerging as front‑runners.

Dusty May's sudden move to the Dallas Mavericks leaves the University of Michigan scrambling to replace a championship‑winning coach. With key players set to test free agency, the school must weigh experienced returnees against the lure of fresh leadership. The five names on the shortlist — Billy Donovan, T.J. Otzelberger, Ben McCollum, Josh Schertz and Mike Boynton — each bring a unique profile, from proven title pedigrees to promising up‑and‑coming resumes.

The University of Michigan basketball program is in flux after Dusty May accepted a position with the Dallas Mavericks, leaving athletic director Warde Manuel to navigate a complex hunt for a new head coach.
A look at how Iowa State’s focus on elite high‑school recruits, especially from Wisconsin, is delivering a No. 1 2027 class and a sustainable program amid a national shift toward the transfer market.

The Cyclones must replace their top three scorers but bring back 37.4% of last season's points, positioning them strongly in the Big 12 as they look to build on a promising future.

The Cyclones lost their leading scorers but retain a high percentage of offensive output, setting the stage for emerging contributors and a pivotal season under Coach T.J. Otzelberger.

With key departures and new transfers, the Cyclones must address perimeter shooting and size while integrating fresh talent.

The Cyclones will field a completely reshaped lineup for 2026‑27, blending transfer talent with untested youth while confronting shooting, size and rebounding concerns.
Coach T.J. Otzelberger’s lifelong ties to Wisconsin fuel a recruiting pipeline that brings six state players to Iowa State next season, highlighting his influence on the program’s culture and player development.

From the roar of the crowd to the triumph over Kansas and Houston, a high school senior recounts the electric atmosphere at Iowa State's Hilton Coliseum and the people who made it possible.
Jack Kohnen, a top 2027 basketball recruit from Slinger, Wisconsin, has pledged to Iowa State University, bringing a versatile skill set and a strong local connection to the Cyclones' 2027 class.

The Cyclones' 2027 recruiting class has been bolstered by three top‑100 four‑star prospects, headlined by Jack Kohnen, whose all‑around game and rebounding prowess have already propelled Slinger to its first state championship game.

Three four‑star prospects have pledged to Iowa State, led by Slinger (Wis.) standout Jack Kohnen, whose all‑court skill set promises immediate impact.
The Iowa State Cyclones have risen in national height rankings and are targeting taller recruits to finally contend for a championship.

The Cyclones have made the NCAA Tournament every year for the past five seasons, and a new focus on taller players could finally translate into a national title run.

Jack Kohnen, a 6‑foot‑6 wing from Slinger, Wisconsin, has committed to Iowa State, choosing the Cyclones over strong interest from Nebraska and Iowa. His all‑around game promises to add depth to the program’s future.

The Cyclones lose Tamin Lipsey, Milan Momcilovic and Joshua Jefferson, but a three‑guard rotation featuring Jaquan Johnson and Jamarion Batemon, plus a frontcourt duo of Singleton and Blake Buchanan, promises a fresh direction.

The Cyclones are reshaping their lineup for the upcoming campaign, adding talented transfers while keeping core players, positioning them to thrive despite early doubts.

After a year‑long recovery, the Class of 2027 recruit is shining on the live‑period circuit, earning accolades for his versatile skill set and focus on becoming a three‑level scorer.