3. Iowa State (14-0)
Being a member of the Big 12 is far from a picnic these days and this Iowa State team is going to remain part of that pain all season. A perfect start for the Cyclones has grabbed national attention, especially with that wild win at Purdue nearly a month ago. After those fireworks, Iowa State’s schedule was much softer in December but this team is looking to show that they can actually win this league now that Big 12 play has begun.
Before that, they took care of one last nonconference game with an 89-61 win over Houston Christian. Joshua Jefferson had 23 points and 8 rebounds while Blake Buchanan added 16 points and 11 rebounds. The Cyclones then opened league play on the right foot, looking strong in an 80-59 victory against West Virginia. Milan Momcilovic had his latest standout effort with 26 points but it was Jefferson with a triple-double against the Mountaineers.
What’s transpired in Ames has been quality performance after quality performance and it’s no surprise to see this unbeaten record continuing to grow. Iowa State will certainly have their fair share of challenges ahead but this team has been playing sensational offense and selfless defense and seriously looks like a real contender. One of those notable road tests comes at Baylor in a few days before an easier game against Oklahoma State.