Will Tamin Lipsey be the next Cyclone to make a big impact in the Bay? After a successful showing at the G-League Combine, former Iowa State point guard Tamin Lipsey is drawing interest from one of the NBA’s most successful franchises, the Golden State Warriors. While Lipsey is not currently projected as a guaranteed draft selection, his stock has continued to rise throughout the pre-draft process thanks to his elite defensive instincts, leadership, and winning pedigree. Lipsey has a scheduled workout with the Golden State, one of several teams evaluating potential second-round and undrafted prospects ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft. The Warriors own the 54th overall pick and have developed a reputation for finding valuable contributors late in the draft, making them a particularly intriguing fit for the former Cyclone standout.  

Like San Francisco quarterback and former Cyclone great, at 6-foot-1, Lipsey may not possess the size that NBA teams typically covet at the point guard position, but his impact on winning has never been questioned. During his Iowa State career, he established himself as one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball while also serving as the emotional leader of the Cyclones. His ability to pressure opposing ball handlers, create turnovers, and make smart decisions offensively could make him an attractive option for a playoff-caliber organization looking to add depth and toughness to its backcourt.  

While there is no indication that Golden State has committed to selecting Lipsey, the workout is significant. The Warriors’ front office has historically invested considerable effort into evaluating second-round prospects and undrafted free agents for roster spots, two-way contracts, and Summer League opportunities. With the 54th pick, Lipsey could be firmly in the mix if Golden State values his defensive versatility, basketball IQ, and championship mentality that he shares with the NFL’s former “Mr. Irrelevant”.

For Iowa State fans, seeing a hometown star potentially join a franchise led by Stephen Curry would be another proud moment in the program’s growing NBA pipeline.