Iowa State faced a challenging contest that resembled a wrestling match, ultimately managing to secure a three-point advantage with just 20 seconds remaining. However, the masterful play from Arizona’s Caleb Love, who launched a long-range shot from beyond half court at the buzzer, led to the third-ranked Cyclones’ overtime defeat at McKale Center. Coach T.J. Otzelberger remarked on the improbability of such a shot succeeding following their hard-fought 86-75 loss last Saturday.
Achieving victory over Iowa State has proven to be a significant challenge this season. Before the defeat against Arizona, the Cyclones (17-3, 7-2 in Big 12) had equaled the best start in their program’s history, matching the record set by the 1994-95 team. Earlier in the season, Iowa State reached their highest-ever ranking at No. 2 and only dropped one position after a narrow loss to West Virginia on January 18. The Cyclones currently rank No. 7 in the NET rankings and No. 5 according to KenPom metrics, boasting impressive wins against formidable opponents like No. 9 Marquette and No. 11 Kansas. Their only defeats have come by closely contested margins against top teams.
Arizona’s coach, Tommy Lloyd, echoed a sentiment of respect towards Iowa State, noting their prowess and strong team composition. The Cyclones have built a reputation with a well-rounded roster that showcases talent across all positions. Under Otzelberger, Iowa State has made their mark in the NCAA Tournament, reaching the Sweet 16 last season and returning three starters this year while also bringing in two significant transfers: Joshua Jefferson from Saint Mary’s and Dishon Jackson from Charlotte.
Jefferson is instrumental for the team, providing versatility as a 6-foot-9 forward who can score in various ways while contributing an average of 12.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Jackson, a 6-11 powerhouse, adds interior strength as a scorer, rebounder, and defensive presence. Meanwhile, sharpshooter Milan Momcilovic, fresh from an injury, has returned to a productive role, hitting 44% of his three-point attempts.
The Cyclones’ guard lineup featuring Curtis Jones, Tamin Lipsey, and Keshon Gilbert ranks among the nation’s best. Gilbert stands out as the second-leading scorer with an impressive average of 15.5 points, alongside 4.6 assists and 3.7 rebounds. Lipsey contributes 10.4 points per game, orchestrating the defense with 45 steals. Jones, a versatile 6-4 senior who transitioned from being a sixth man to a key starter, leads the team with an average of 18.1 points, showcasing his ability to excel as a scorer and a defender.
Jones’ impact was particularly noted after he notched 33 points in a January 25 win against Arizona State, with the opposing coach praising his all-around game. Iowa State’s success can be accurately described as complete, with five players averaging double-digit points and ranking No. 13 in KenPom offensive efficiency, scoring an average of 84.2 points per game—tied for 11th in the nation.
Defensively, the Cyclones also excel, limiting opponents to an average of 67 points while achieving a tie for 10th in the nation with 9.9 steals per game and placing sixth overall in KenPom defensive efficiency. Their adaptability is further evidenced by their ability to close out games, having overcome 13-point deficits against rivals like Iowa and Texas Tech, as well as finishing strong against Arizona State with a decisive late-game surge.
Focusing on their core identity, Coach Otzelberger emphasized the Cyclones’ relentless approach, stating, “We focus on our identity and doing what we do; that’s part of our DNA.” This strong foundation has left their opponents continuously searching for strategies to overcome Iowa State, thus far with limited success.
