13. Iowa State (2-seed)
Keshon Gilbert (Junior – Guard)
After spending the last two seasons at UNLV, Gilbert opted to transfer and has become the leading scorer for a stout Iowa State squad. Gilbert is putting up 13.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while also sitting among the Big 12 leaders in steals. He’s been a major addition for the Cyclones, with solid shot making ability and a certain defensive presence. He’s scored in double figures in six straight games and is just one player to watch in this talented lineup.
Curtis Jones (Senior – Guard)
Following one year at the junior college level and two at Buffalo, Jones arrived at Iowa State this past offseason. He was coming off an explosive junior season with the Bulls but has still put up great numbers in the Big 12 at 10.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. Many of his contributions don’t stand out, but he’s a stat sheet stuffer who’s been in double figures in the Cyclones’ first two NCAA Tournament wins and shows no sign of slowing down.
Tre King (Senior – Forward)
A star scorer during three seasons at Eastern Kentucky, this is King’s second and final year with the Cyclones and he’s having another solid effort. King’s been good for 8.9 points and 5.3 rebounds per game as a valuable piece of the puzzle for Iowa State. He’s an above-average rebounder who’s important on the defensive end and did have several prominent scoring performances earlier in the season, including 16 points in the Big 12 Tournament against Kansas State.
Tamin Lipsey (Sophomore – Guard)
Perhaps the most prominent weapon for Iowa State this season, Lipsey has taken a massive step forward as a sophomore, averaging 12.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 2.7 steals on the year. He led the Big 12 in steals, was among its leaders in assists, and has had a monster impact on both sides of the ball. Lipsey has eclipsed 15 points in each of the Cyclones’s first two Tourney games and just keeps piling on both the assists and the defensive pressure.
Milan Momcilovic (Freshman – Forward)
A Top 40 prospect from Wisconsin, Momcilovic has developed into a great weapon down low for the Cylcones. He’s averaging 11.2 points and 3.2 rebounds in his first collegiate season and has scored in double figures in Iowa State’s last four outings. He’s shot 36% beyond the arc, but had a hot hand from outside down the stretch run this season. He’s still developing his game as a freshman but has matured into a major threat for the Cyclones this season.