Iowa State’s men’s basketball head coach T.J. Otzelberger, who has notably led the third-ranked Cyclones to the NCAA Tournament during each of his first three years, has secured a new contract that runs through the 2031-32 season, as announced on Tuesday by the university.
When Otzelberger took over the program, it had seen a tough season in 2020-21, winning only two games. However, he steered the Cyclones to an impressive 22 wins and a Sweet 16 appearance in his inaugural season. His second campaign concluded with a 19-win tally, even though the team faced an early exit in the NCAA tournament. Last season marked a high point as the Cyclones clinched the Big 12 Tournament title, reached the Sweet 16, and notched up 29 victories, which stands as the second most in the program’s history.
As of this season, Iowa State boasts a 9-1 record, with Otzelberger holding an overall coaching record of 79-36 at the university, including a 29-25 mark in Big 12 play. Details surrounding the new terms of his contract remain undisclosed.
Athletic director Jamie Pollard praised Coach Otzelberger, highlighting the dramatic transformation of the program. He credited Otzelberger’s leadership and the strategic framework he and his team have put into place, remarking on the impressive turnaround the university’s basketball program has experienced in a short period.
This announcement comes just a week after the school extended a contract for football coach Matt Campbell, who led the team to its first 10-win season and its appearance in the Big 12 championship game.
Otzelberger has made history as the sole coach in Iowa State’s history to guide multiple teams to the Sweet 16. Furthermore, he is one of only three Cyclone coaches to achieve at least 20 victories against ranked opponents. With a remarkable 11 wins against top-10 teams, he is just behind the legendary coach Johnny Orr, who holds the record with 12.
Expressing his enthusiasm for staying at Iowa State, Otzelberger stated, “My family and I love Iowa State University, and the community, and are happy to continue calling it home. Our fan base is second-to-none and we value their continued support as we continue this journey together.”