Iowa State Cyclones 2025-26 Projected Roster & Outlook
This series provides an in-depth look at RotoWire’s preseason top-25 college basketball teams, featuring analysis of the roster and projected rotation for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Today, we focus on the Iowa State Cyclones.
For the latest updates on injuries, player roles, and performance, visit RotoWire’s latest college basketball news or follow @RotoWireCBB on X.
16. Iowa State
Iowa State began the season as a title contender but faced significant challenges in Big 12 play, ultimately finishing fifth in the conference. Despite early promise, the Cyclones’ season was hampered by injuries that disrupted their performance heading into the postseason, which ended with a Round of 32 upset by Ole Miss. The team will need to fill the gaps left by standout guards Curtis Jones (17.4 PPG) and Keshon Gilbert (13.4 PPG, 4.1 APG).
However, Tamin Lipsey will return to the backcourt, expected to return to his sophomore form, averaging 12.4 PPG, 4.9 APG, 4.6 RPG, and 2.7 SPG. Additionally, Joshua Jefferson, who had an impressive season averaging 13.0 PPG, will also be back on the roster.
Forward Milan Momcilovic is expected to make significant progress this season after dealing with a hand injury last year. The 6-8 forward is noted for his scoring ability and long-range shooting. Transfer Blake Buchanan from Virginia is set to step into the starting center role, replacing Dishon Jackson.
There’s an open competition for the shooting guard position, with candidates including Nate Heise, who started late last season, Mason Williams (Eastern Washington), Dominick Nelson (Utah Valley), and top recruit Jamarion Batemon. Heise is likely to start after a solid showing last season with a 41% three-point shooting rate.
Under Coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Cyclones have a track record of leveraging contributions from less recognized players. For Iowa State to fulfill its potential, strong performances from Lipsey, Jefferson, and Momcilovic will be crucial, especially following last season’s challenges.
2025-26 Iowa State Projected Starting Lineup:
PG: Tamin Lipsey (10.6 PPG, 3.1 APG, 2.0 SPG)
SG: Nate Heise (5.1 PPG)
SF: Milan Momcilovic (11.5 PPG, 2.3 3PM)
PF: Joshua Jefferson (13.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 3.1 APG, 2.1 SPG)
C: Blake Buchanan (5.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG at Virginia)
Key Reserves: Mason Williams (13.9 PPG at Eastern Washington), Dominick Nelson (14.4 PPG at Utah Valley), Eric Mulder (8.4 PPG at Purdue-Fort Wayne), Jamarion Batemon (No. 74 ESPN 100), Xzavion Mitchell (No. 83 ESPN 100), Killyan Toure (4-star Freshman)
For details on player injuries and status, check RotoWire’s college basketball injury report.
