UPDATE: Iowa State’s point guard Tamin Lipsey has been declared the best in the nation by head coach T.J. Otzelberger after leading the Cyclones to a historic 70-60 victory over Baylor on January 10, 2024. This win marks Iowa State’s best start in school history, with the team now boasting a remarkable record of 15-0.
Otzelberger did not hold back in his praise for Lipsey, stating, “Obviously, you’re talking about the guy who I’m taking over any point guard in America.” This bold claim highlights Lipsey’s pivotal role in Iowa State’s success amid a competitive landscape filled with top talent, including Purdue’s Braden Smith and Alabama’s Labaron Philon.
Despite a challenging first half where Iowa State trailed by as many as eight points, Lipsey surged back after halftime, scoring 20 points to secure the win. “Not having him out there quite as much in the first half impacted where the game was at,” Otzelberger noted. “But man, in that second half, the plays he made, the shots he made, it was amazing.”
Born and raised in Ames, Iowa, Lipsey expressed his deep connection to the Cyclones. “I’ve been a Cyclone all my life,” he shared. “I just got on the court four years ago… realizing now I have a chance to make a footprint for Iowa State and just the community of Ames? I never take that for granted.”
The atmosphere at Foster Pavilion was electric, with notable figures in attendance. Baylor football coach Dave Aranda was seen alongside former Florida quarterback DJ Lagway, who is exploring transfer options after a tumultuous season. The crowd chanted for Lagway, demonstrating the excitement surrounding his potential move.
Additionally, Baylor center James Nnaji, the first former NBA draft pick cleared by the NCAA, made his home debut, marking a significant moment in college basketball. Nnaji, who has faced criticism for joining the team midseason, contributed two points and five rebounds in just 16 minutes of play. Baylor coach Scott Drew addressed Nnaji’s ongoing recovery, stating, “James is getting in shape… He was seven months of rehabbing, no 5-on-5.”
With this victory, Iowa State has proven it can compete with the best teams in the nation. “If you ask me right now today, them and Michigan are the two best in college basketball,” Drew remarked, underscoring the Cyclones’ impressive performance.
As Iowa State continues its pursuit of a perfect season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. The team’s next challenge will be crucial as they aim to extend their historic winning streak. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
