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Iowa State concluded the 2024-2025 men's basketball season ranked 17th in the final AP Poll. While this is a respectable position, a strong argument can be made that the Cyclones deserved a higher ranking considering their overall performance and the significant adversity they overcame.
Throughout the season, Iowa State consistently demonstrated their prowess, achieving a 25-10 overall record and a notable 13-7 record within the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. Their resilience was particularly evident in the face of key injuries that hampered their postseason run. Guards Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert, crucial playmakers for the team, both suffered groin injuries that significantly impacted their performance in the Big 12 Tournament and the early rounds of the NCAA Tournament. Gilbert was ultimately sidelined for the entirety of March Madness.
Despite these setbacks, Iowa State managed to secure a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament, a testament to their strong regular-season performance. While their tournament journey ended earlier than many had hoped with a loss to Ole Miss, their ability to maintain a high level of play despite crucial players operating at less than 100% warrants a higher consideration in the final AP Poll. The AP Poll often considers a team's performance throughout the entire season, including their ability to navigate challenges. Iowa State's strong record in a tough conference, coupled with their resilience in the face of injuries during the most critical part of the season, makes a compelling case for a ranking higher than 17th.
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Iowa State concluded the 2024-2025 men's basketball season ranked 17th in the final AP Poll. While this is a respectable position, a strong argument can be made that the Cyclones deserved a higher ranking considering their overall performance and the significant adversity they overcame.
Throughout the season, Iowa State consistently demonstrated their prowess, achieving a 25-10 overall record and a notable 13-7 record within the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. Their resilience was particularly evident in the face of key injuries that hampered their postseason run. Guards Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert, crucial playmakers for the team, both suffered groin injuries that significantly impacted their performance in the Big 12 Tournament and the early rounds of the NCAA Tournament. Gilbert was ultimately sidelined for the entirety of March Madness.
Despite these setbacks, Iowa State managed to secure a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament, a testament to their strong regular-season performance. While their tournament journey ended earlier than many had hoped with a loss to Ole Miss, their ability to maintain a high level of play despite crucial players operating at less than 100% warrants a higher consideration in the final AP Poll. The AP Poll often considers a team's performance throughout the entire season, including their ability to navigate challenges. Iowa State's strong record in a tough conference, coupled with their resilience in the face of injuries during the most critical part of the season, makes a compelling case for a ranking higher than 17th.
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Turbo Tax
Ready for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees.
Supply House
Join the Trade Master program today at SupplyHouse.com/TM and start ordering plumbing, HVAC, and electrical supplies with just a few clicks. Plus, use promo code SH5 for 5% off your first order. That’s SupplyHouse.com!
Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.
Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.
FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)