Projecting Iowa State Basketball Starting Five With Tamin Lipsey

The Iowa State Cyclones received a massive boost with a recent decision from an Indiana court that has deemed Tamin Lipsey eligible to return to school for a fifth season.

Because he didn’t declare for the NBA draft or sign a professional contract since he was a graduating senior, Lipsey isn’t bound by some of the new Big 12 rules in place barring players from returning for a fifth season under the new 5-in-5 eligibility rules.

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That is great news for the Cyclones, who are getting one of the best players in program history back for one more season. With his return, the lineup is going to look a little different than projected originally during the offseason.

Let’s take a look at what the Iowa State opening night lineup could look like.

Tennessee forward Nate Ament (10) tries to protect the ball while defended by Iowa State guard Tamin Lipsey (3) during an NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 college basketball game at the United Center in Chicago on March 27, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The Cyclones were able to land Jaquan Johnson in the transfer portal as a Lipsey replacement. The reigning Missouri Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year brought a lot of the same attributes to the court; now he will learn from the player he was expected to take over for.

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Lipsey elevates this team to a new level. He is a star two-way producer and the best point-of-attack defender in the country. The all-time leader for the program in steals is going to add to that total, while also looking to chase down Monte Morris for the most assists.

Shooting Guard: Jamarion Batemon

Mar 22, 2026; St. Louis, MO, USA; Iowa State Cyclones guard Jamarion Batemon (1) celebrates after a play during the second half against the Kentucky Wildcats during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

This spot would go to Killyan Toure, but he is going to be sidelined until mid-to-late…

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Publish date : 2026-09-29 18:00:00

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