5. Iowa State (2-0)
Even though they didn’t have anyone considered a national star, last season was brilliant for the Cyclones because this team played great ball together. An elite defense and a Sweet Sixteen run were fantastic, but expectations are just as high this season with most of that talent back in Ames again. Time will tell if Iowa State lives up to those expectations because their season’s start hasn’t been challenging.
One week after a laugher on opening night, the Cyclones got win number two by beating Kansas City 82-56 back on Monday. It was another decent shooting performance and excellent defensive effort, led by Curtis Jones and his 20 points off the bench. Iowa State made 48% of their field goal attempts and made quick work of the Roos.
Obviously, we’re not learning much about this program or its potential with these easy season-opening opportunities. The Cyclones can only play those on their schedule, and they will certainly be challenged in the months ahead, especially during Big 12 play. Until then, TJ Otzelberger and his staff are finding strengths in these lineups and will look to do more of that next week against IU Indy, another tune-up before the tough stuff starts around the holiday.