13. Iowa State (3-0)
Things are a little different at Iowa State this season but the story has been pretty similar since T. J. Otzelberger showed up and rejuvenated this program. The Cyclones typically play strong consistent team basketball and have been a contender in the Big 12 in recent years. They’re looking to repeat that feat and had a strong opening salvo in their first two games of the season.
The first big opportunity came for the Cyclones on Monday night and they took full advantage, winning 96-80 against Mississippi State in South Dakota. That neutral-site win saw another strong offensive outing as the team shot 51% from the field. Tamin Lipsey continued proving his worth with 25 points and 6 assists while Joshua Jefferson added 18 points as well.
The Cyclones survived a tough game from Milan Momcilovic and have the balance and depth to take care of business even when some of their best players aren’t on their game. They survived this first real test of the season, winning by double digits even with a bad shooting night from outside the arc. Tougher tests are ahead, especially in Big 12 play, but it’s just Stonehill on the schedule in the coming seven days.