2005 Iowa State Cyclones Basketball Preview

2005 Iowa State Cyclones Team Preview

Last season Iowa State had its ups and downs, or maybe it’s best to say it had its downs and ups. The first half of the season saw the team sputter and wobble. By the end of January they had a six game losing streak. All of that changed with a victory over the Oklahoma Sooners, a top nationally ranked team. What followed was a six game winning streak with half of the Cyclones’ wins over big name teams. The Cyclones went to the Tournament where they were beaten by North Carolina in the regional second round. But they proved that despite everything they were a team of talent and heart. You can expect more of the same from the Iowa State Cyclones this year.

First and foremost the team has one of the finest backcourts in the NCAA with juniors Curtis Stinson (17.2 PPG and 5.5 RPG) and Will Blalock (12.3 PPG and 3.2 RPG). Blalock, who had 60 steals last season, and Stinson, who averaged more than 2 steals per game last year, are both first-class defensemen. Both, who can make big plays at both ends of the court, will probably win All-Conference honors this season.

Center Jared Homan and his 13.6 PPG and 8.7 RPG graduated last year, which leaves new center man Jiri Hubalek as the new middleman. Hubalek, who’s a Junior College transfer, has a fine shot from the outside. He now has to learn to step it up on the next level. If he doesn’t this can spell trouble for the Cyclones.

Starting forward Rashon Clark hit 54% from the field, 40.4% from the 3-point mark, and 69.5% from the free throw line in 2004-05. Freshman Shawn Taggart, who possesses amazing defensive skills, will start immediately for Iowa State. He is one of four extremely skilled first year players who join this leading team.

With a majority of their talented starters returning, the Cyclones are considered to be one of the leading contenders in the Big 12. Chances are this year will not begin with a huge swoon but instead a steady charge.

We have also listed the link to the official Iowa State Cyclones athletic site, for those that would like more info on the 2005 Iowa State mens basketball team. If not continue on below to more of the individual big 12 schools.