3. Iowa State (8-1)
Stout defense and selfless offense have been paramount pillars of Iowa State basketball under T. J. Otzelberger in recent years. There’s no major star on this team, yet the Cyclones marched to the Sweet Sixteen last season. They return a lot of that same talent and it’s no surprise to see them producing at a high level or working their way up to this point in the national rankings, especially when their only loss is to Auburn.
Back on Sunday, Iowa State made quick work of Jackson State in another mid-major tune-up, getting a 100-58 victory. Milan Momcilovic led the Cyclones with 18 points while Joshua Jefferson had a double-double. Thursday was more of a challenge, with Iowa State fighting back from a 7-point halftime deficit to defeat rival Iowa 89-80 on the road. Curtis Jones had 23 points off the bench while Jefferson put up 19 points and 10 rebounds in another double-double performance.
It’s no accident that Iowa State sits in this enviable position. They’ve looked the part of a national contender, with that impressive win over Marquette and a host of other positive results. The offense has really played efficient basketball over the last month and it’ll be interesting to see how it holds up once Big 12 play begins. For now, the Cyclones ride towards the holiday with a pair of easy home dates, starting with Omaha.