UPDATE: Iowa State’s point guard Tamin Lipsey has been declared the best in the nation by head coach T.J. Otzelberger, following a thrilling victory over Baylor on January 10, 2024. The No. 3 Cyclones defeated Baylor 70-60, marking the school’s best start in history with an impressive 15-0 record.
Lipsey’s performance was pivotal, especially in the second half, where he scored 20 points after struggling early due to foul trouble. “We’ve got the best point guard in the country,” Otzelberger stated passionately post-game, emphasizing Lipsey’s crucial role in the team’s success.
Initially, Lipsey had only four points in the first half, as Iowa State found themselves trailing by as many as eight points. However, his resurgence in the second half showcased his resilience and skill, leading the Cyclones to a commanding 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.”
Lipsey, a lifelong Cyclone, expressed his gratitude for being part of this historic moment. “I’ve been a Cyclone all my life,” he said. “Watching all those teams growing up… now I have a chance to make a footprint for Iowa State and the community of Ames. I never take that for granted.”
The game also featured notable figures in attendance, including Baylor football coach Dave Aranda and former Florida quarterback DJ Lagway, who was visiting after entering the transfer portal. The atmosphere intensified as Baylor fans chanted for Lagway, reflecting the excitement surrounding his potential transfer to the team.
Additionally, former Virginia coach Tony Bennett was spotted in the stands, over a year after his unexpected retirement. Baylor’s center James Nnaji, the first former NBA draft pick cleared to compete by the NCAA, played his first home game, contributing two points and five rebounds in just 16 minutes.
Baylor coach Scott Drew addressed Nnaji’s recovery, stating, “James is getting in shape… he was seven months of rehabbing, no 5-on-5.” Despite the challenges, Nnaji’s participation is a significant development in college basketball, amid controversy over NCAA regulations.
Iowa State’s victory not only cements their place as a top contender but also highlights their capability to compete at the highest level. “If you ask me right now, them and Michigan are the two best in college basketball,” Drew remarked, pointing to Iowa State’s impressive trajectory.
As the Cyclones continue their historic season, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor their performance, especially as they aim for a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
