News Summary

As the 2025-26 basketball season approaches, the Iowa State Cyclones are buzzing with excitement, riding the momentum from their successful football campaign. Recent commitments from high-caliber recruits Yusef Gray Jr. and Josiah Harrington set the stage, while two coveted prospects, Donovan Davis and Baboucarr Ann, explored the campus during a victorious football game. An action-packed non-conference schedule promises to keep fans engaged as the Cyclones aim for a stellar season.

Iowa State Ready to Make Waves in Basketball After Football Success

In the lively city of Ames, Iowa, all eyes are now on the Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball team as they gear up for a promising 2025-26 season. Following a triumphant spell for the Cyclones on the football field, the basketball program is eager to ride the wave of momentum to attract top-notch recruits.

Football Brings Buzz to the Basketball Program

Just last week in the second week of the 2025 college football season, the Cyclones faced off against their in-state rivals, the Iowa Hawkeyes, for the coveted Cy-Hawk Trophy. In a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Iowa State clinched victory for the second consecutive year, thanks to an impressive kick by Kyle Konrardy in the closing moments of the game.

What made this football showdown even more special for the basketball team was the presence of several high-profile basketball recruits, who were all buzzing with excitement. It was the perfect opportunity for Iowa State to showcase their athletic spirit and facilities to these potential new players.

Exciting Commitments from Young Talent

Following the electrifying game, the Cyclones celebrated some promising news on the recruitment front. Two standout high school athletes, Yusef Gray Jr. and Josiah Harrington, vowed to bring their talents to Iowa State’s basketball program. Yusef, a three-star prospect from the class of 2026, and Josiah, a four-star prospect from the class of 2027, have both made commitments that have fans buzzing with anticipation.

Keeping an Eye on Top Targets

But the excitement doesn’t end there! Among those who attended the game were two highly sought-after prospects: Donovan Davis and Baboucarr Ann. Davis is making a name for himself as a four-star player from Freedom High School in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. He currently sits among the top 50 prospects for the 2027 class and is ranked No. 2 within Wisconsin. Word is out that he’s entertaining offers from big contenders like California, Iowa, Marquette, Syracuse, and Wisconsin, all while enjoying his time at the football game and mingling with fellow recruits.

Meanwhile, Baboucarr Ann, a three-star player from Maple Grove High School in Osseo, Minnesota, stands at No. 3 in his state. Both recruits had great things to say about their Iowa State experience, especially the warm interactions they had with other potential teammates.

A Packed Non-Conference Schedule Ahead

Transitioning into basketball season, the Cyclones have unveiled an exciting non-conference schedule for the 2025-26 season. Fans can look forward to an action-packed lineup that includes eight regular-season home games and one exhibition game at their beloved Hilton Coliseum.

This schedule is set to kick off with two exhibition games, starting on October 17 against Creighton and followed by a matchup with Northwestern on October 26. The regular-season opener is marked for November 3, where Iowa State will go head-to-head against Fairleigh Dickinson.

As the season progresses, the Cyclones will host several teams, including Grambling State on November 6, before facing Mississippi State in Sioux Falls, S.D. on November 10. Notably, the Cyclones will also engage in a tournament in Las Vegas from November 25-29, against heavyweight teams like Alabama and Gonzaga.

December Brings More Excitement

The action continues in December as Iowa State hosts Alcorn State on December 3, travels to Purdue on December 6, and has a highly anticipated match against Iowa in the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series on December 11. Additional home games against Eastern Illinois, Long Beach State, and Houston Christian later in the month promise to keep the fan excitement high.

Big Monday and Ticket Sales

Looking ahead, the Cyclones have been selected to participate in two thrilling Big Monday matchups. They will host Houston on February 16 and play against Arizona on March 2, bringing high-intensity competition to the court.

As for fans eager to watch the action unfold live, season ticket renewal details will be shared by early July. Interest in new tickets is already strong, promising a vibrant atmosphere at all home games.

With a season filled with promise and thrilling matchups on the horizon, the Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball team is ready to shine, fueled by the successes of their illustrious football program. Get ready, Ames—an unforgettable season awaits!

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