7 Players You Should Check Out from Iowa State University
January 2, 2025

If you’re not keeping an eye on Iowa State, you’re seriously missing out. The Cyclones are loaded with talent across the board—basketball, football, and even soccer. These players are balling out, and trust me, their stats back it up. Let’s talk about seven athletes from Iowa State University you should check out.

Keshon Gilbert #10 | Iowa State – Men’s Basketball 

Keshon Gilbert came to Iowa State ready to ball. This guard knows how to take over a game, averaging 16.4 points per game while shooting over 51% from the field. Whether he’s driving to the hoop or pulling up for a jumper, he gets buckets.

Iowa State Maui Men's Basketball Jersey - Keshon Gilbert (Source: NIL Store)

 

But Gilbert isn’t just about scoring—he plays tough defense, too. With quick hands and sharp instincts, he’s constantly racking up steals and making opposing guards work for every possession. He’s a two-way player who can change the game on both ends of the floor—a must-watch for Cyclone fans.

Curtis Jones #5 | Iowa State – Men’s Basketball

Curtis Jones is Iowa State’s go-to sharpshooter. He’s sinking 40% of his threes, and when he’s feeling it, he can light up the scoreboard in a hurry.

Iowa State Winter Edition Basketball Jersey - Curtis Jones (Source: NIL Store)

But Jones isn’t just a shooter—he hustles for rebounds and dishes out assists, averaging 4 rebounds and 3 assists per game. He’s the kind of player who brings energy and makes big plays when his team needs him most.

Tamin Lipsey # 3 | Iowa State – Men’s Basketball

Every team needs a leader, and for the Cyclones, that’s Tamin Lipsey. This point guard runs the show, averaging 3.7 assists per game, one of the best in the Big 12, and 25.9% on his three-pointers. He’s always setting up his teammates and making smart decisions with the ball.

Crimson Men's Basketball Iowa State Jersey - Tamin Lipsey (Source: NIL Store)

And don’t forget his defense—Lipsey leads the team with 2.4 steals per game, constantly disrupting the other team’s flow. If you love watching a player who can control the game on both ends, Lipsey is the one to watch.

Rocco Becht #3 | Iowa State – Men’s Football 

Rocco Becht is the quarterback every team dreams of. This season of Iowa State University football, he’s thrown for 3,235 yards and 22 touchdowns, with only nine interceptions. That’s some solid production from a guy who knows how to lead his team.

Nike Iowa State Cardinal NIL Game Replica Football Jersey - Rocco Becht (Source: NIL Store)

Becht’s ability to handle pressure is what really stands out. He’s calm, collected, and delivers in the clutch. Whether he’s throwing a deep ball or keeping the chains moving, Becht is a QB Cyclone fans can count on. For a sophomore, he plays like a seasoned vet, and the Cyclones’ offense is in great hands with him at the helm.

Carson Hansen #26 | Iowa State – Men’s Football

Carson Hansen is a name Cyclone fans are getting excited about. This sophomore is quick, explosive, and tough to bring down. He’s already making an impact, averaging 5 yards per carry and showing flashes of brilliance in the backfield.

Iowa State Throwback Football Jersey - Carson Hansen | #26 (Source: NIL Store)

Hansen’s versatility is a huge asset. He’s dangerous in open space, whether he’s taking handoffs, catching passes, or returning kicks. He’s got a bright future, and it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a staple in Iowa State’s offense.

Audi Crooks #55 | Iowa State – Women’s Basketball

Audi Crooks dominated in her previous season with the Cyclones, and she’s just getting started. Standing at 6’3”, she’s averaging 19.9 points and 7.9 rebounds per game while shooting an insane 65.2% from the field. She’s efficient, powerful, and impossible to stop down low.


 
Audi Crooks x Emily Ryan Presidency Crimson Hoodie (Source: NIL Store)

On defense, she’s just as dominant—blocking shots and making opponents think twice before driving to the basket. Cyclone fans, get ready—Crooks is going to be a force for years to come.

Avery Gillahan #1 | Iowa State – Women’s Soccer

If Iowa State women’s soccer is in the game, it’s because Avery Gillahan is holding it down in goal. This sophomore goalkeeper has 66 saves this season and a save percentage hovering around .786. She recently earned the Big 12 Goalkeeper of the Week award, proving she’s one of the best in the league​.

Iowa State Women's Soccer White Logo Hoodie - Avery Gillahan (Source: NIL Store)

Gillahan’s reflexes are elite, but her leadership stands out just as much. She’s always directing traffic and keeping her defense organized. When the pressure is on, Gillahan comes through in the clutch, making her a player every Cyclone fan should know.

Watch Out for These Cyclones

From Keshon Gilbert’s clutch plays to Avery Gillahan’s brick-wall goalkeeping, these Cyclones are taking their games to the next level. Whether you’re into basketball, football, or soccer, these seven athletes are showing why Iowa State University is on the rise.

Want to show your support? Head over to the NIL Store and check out the Iowa State University apparel! It’s a great way to back these incredible athletes while rocking Cyclone pride. 

Gear up and support the future stars of Iowa State today!