AMES, Iowa – A once-promising season for the Iowa State Cyclones is facing a critical juncture as the team navigates a recent slump and a significant drop in national rankings. With just one regular season game remaining – a home contest against Arizona State – the Cyclones are looking to regain momentum before entering the Big 12 Tournament. A recent downturn, marked by three losses in their last four games and four in their last seven, has tempered expectations for a team that was previously considered a potential No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament.
The Cyclones’ struggles have been reflected in updated power rankings. ESPN’s Jeff Borzello recently moved Iowa State from fifth to ninth in his latest rankings, signaling a clear shift in national perception. This decline comes as Iowa State faces challenges both on and off the court, including a demanding Big 12 schedule and increased travel demands.
Offensive Struggles and Road Woes
A key factor in Iowa State’s recent difficulties has been inconsistent offensive production. While forward Joshua Jefferson has enjoyed a strong overall campaign, his scoring has dipped in recent games. Freshman guard Killyan Toure has also experienced a decline in confidence, leading to a reduced role in the team’s rotation. These offensive challenges are compounded by the Cyclones’ struggles away from home. Of their six losses this season, five have occurred in conference play on the road, raising concerns about their ability to perform in tournament settings where all games will be played at neutral sites.
Iowa State Cyclones forward Joshua Jefferson | Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune / USA TODAY NETWORK via USA TODAY NETWORK
Potential Path to Recovery
Despite the recent setbacks, Iowa State still has an opportunity to improve its seeding in the Big 12 Tournament and bolster its NCAA tournament resume. A key weekend clash between Michigan State and Michigan could provide a pathway for the Cyclones to climb back into the top eight of the rankings. If Michigan State loses to its rival on the road, it could drop off the two-line, potentially opening a spot for Iowa State to move up. A strong showing in the Big 12 tournament remains crucial for securing a favorable seed in March Madness.
Recent Results and Tournament Implications
The Sun Devils and Cyclones will tip off at 5:30 PM CST at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, with the game airing on ESPN+. Arizona State recently defeated Iowa State 90-64 on February 19th, with Audi Crooks scoring 28 points for the Cyclones and McKinna Brackens contributing 21 for the Sun Devils. Arizona State is currently 23-9 overall and 10-9 in Big 12 play, while Iowa State holds a 22-8 record with a 10-8 conference mark. The Sun Devils are looking to solidify their own NCAA tournament chances, making this matchup particularly high-stakes for both teams.
Adding to the drama, Arizona State upset Iowa State in the second round of the Big 12 Women’s Basketball Tournament on March 5th, 2026, according to azcentral.com, further intensifying the rivalry between the two programs.
As the regular season draws to a close, the Iowa State Cyclones face a critical test against Arizona State. The outcome of this game, coupled with the results of other key matchups, will significantly impact their seeding in the Big 12 Tournament and their overall prospects for a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The team’s ability to rediscover its offensive rhythm and overcome its road struggles will be paramount to its success in the coming weeks.
What are your thoughts on Iowa State’s recent performance? Share your predictions for the Big 12 Tournament in the comments below!
