
Iowa State Cyclones Lock Down Roster Amid NCAA Eligibility Changes
The Cyclones have replaced departing stars with a mix of portal acquisitions and fresh recruits, ensuring continuity as the NCAA tightens rules for international players.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning T.J. Otzelberger across Basketball.

The Cyclones have replaced departing stars with a mix of portal acquisitions and fresh recruits, ensuring continuity as the NCAA tightens rules for international players.

After a strong campaign, Iowa State is reshaping its lineup with the arrival of guard Leon Bond III, a 6‑5, 200‑pound forward who brings defensive intensity and rebounding to complement the team's evolving identity.

Returning centers and a renewed focus on player development set the stage for the Cyclones' quest for a deep tournament run.

Under coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Cyclones blend proven depth with emerging big men, aiming to rebound from a injury‑marred campaign and re‑establish themselves as a Big 12 powerhouse.

The Cyclones are integrating five transfers and three freshmen into next season’s lineup, with particular focus on Ryan Prather Jr., whose national‑leading assist‑to‑turnover ratio brings a new offensive dimension.

Milan Momcilovic, who set a school‑record three‑point percentage last season, is deciding whether to stay in college or enter the NBA Draft, with Kentucky showing strong interest and offering a sizable NIL deal.

The Cyclones are banking on a revitalized backcourt and a healthy core to contend in the Big 12 next season.

The Iowa State Cyclones are shaping up for the upcoming 2026‑27 basketball season, aiming to rebuild around a promising backcourt after a key injury.
Weeks away from the NBA Draft, Joshua Jefferson reflects on injuries, perseverance, and the influence of his father as he trains at Mike Miller’s Barn facility.
The 2026 Players Era 16 tournament will feature Iowa State's first game on Nov. 24 in Las Vegas, with a potential rematch against Tennessee and a new single‑elimination format.

Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson is drawing attention from NBA scouts as a realistic first‑round candidate in the 2026 draft, thanks to his all‑court skill set and recent development.
Jackson Kiss, a consensus four-star big man, has flipped his commitment from Iowa State to UNLV, prompting the Cyclones to lean on their current roster and recent transfer additions as they prepare for the 2026 season.

Jackson Kiss, a highly rated New Zealand forward, de‑commits from Iowa State and pledges to play for UNLV, prompting the Cyclones to lean on transfers and depth for the upcoming season.

A detailed look at Iowa State’s ambitious non‑conference schedule, marquee matchups, and the storylines that could shape the team’s early season.

Coach T.J. Otzelberger revealed his all‑time starting five, highlighting standout performers like Tamin Lipsey, Izaiah Brockington and Blake Buchanan, while noting the program’s five straight NCAA tournament berths.
A top Iowa State prospect evaluates the financial and career implications of turning pro versus staying in college.

A look at Iowa State's rising recruiting class, highlighted by top‑100 talent Baboucarr Ann and the program's growing influence in the Midwest.

Iowa State's 2027 class tops national rankings, highlighted by Josiah Harrington's return and key summer evaluation events.

Two top‑50 prospects have already pledged to Iowa State, and the program is chasing additional top‑100 talent as it rides a wave of success that includes three Sweet 16 runs, a 2024 Big 12 Tournament crown and a half‑year streak in the AP Top 25.
Coach Ben McCollum signed a six‑year, $27.6 million deal, keeping him in Iowa through 2032 and signaling a long‑term commitment to the program.