Iowa State Basketball: 2024-25 season preview for the Cyclones

Key Reserves

Guard – Nate Heise (Senior)

Unquestionably a major addition to the Cyclones’ depth, Heise comes to Ames following four productive years at Northern Iowa. A full-time starter throughout his career, Heise missed most of his third year due to injury before bouncing back last season, averaging 13.5 points and 6.1 rebounds for the Panthers. You can expect production when his name is called, especially if his shooting touch keeps improving.

Forward – Joshua Jefferson (Junior)

Jefferson spent his underclassman years at Saint Mary’s and now joins the Cyclones after a breakout campaign. During that aforementioned sophomore season, Jefferson averaged 10.2 points and 6.5 rebounds a game, helping the Gaels to WCC titles as one of the best defensive players in that league. Now Jefferson brings that impressive defensive intensity into Iowa State’s elite system.

Guard – Demarion Watson (Junior)

We’re not sure how deep Otzelberger will keep this lineup as the season progresses, but it’s possible that Watson sees more run as an upperclassman. A reserve in his first two years with the Cyclones, he put up just 1.9 points and 1.9 rebounds per game last year but did provide dependable backup minutes. He’s taken a step forward and could do more of the same if his number is called.

Guard – Nojus Indrusaitis (Freshman)

Although he’s a fringe Top 100 recruit, Indrusaitis might be one of the most underrated freshman recruits in the Big 12. What he lacks in size, strength, and consistency he makes up for in other aspects, particularly his offensive game. He’s a solid outside shooter with potential, we’ll just have to see how long it takes for his defensive game to catch up.

Center – JT Rock (Freshman)

We didn’t see Rock at all last season as he took a redshirt season, but now he has a chance to earn backup minutes at the 5. The 7’1 center from South Dakota continues to build strength and could develop into a dynamic rim protector for the Cyclones in the coming years, especially with time in this system.

Forward – Brandton Chatfield (Senior)

Following four years on the West Coast, Chatfield joins the Cyclones for the finale to his collegiate career. A former Washington State backup, he had a solid role at Seattle, averaging 9.4 points and 5.4 rebounds as a starting forward last year for the Pioneers, leading the WAC in interior shooting percentage. If he can be productive against bigger foes in the Big 12 then he can provide much-needed depth and experience in this frontcourt.