For Iowa State basketball fans, the 2026 NBA Draft will be remembered as a night that showcased the growth and national relevance of the Cyclone program under T.J. Otzelberger. While one Cyclone heard his name called in the first round, another quickly found an NBA opportunity that could lead to an exciting future.

Joshua Jefferson Bets on Himself

When the first round of the NBA Draft unfolded Tuesday night, former Iowa State star Joshua Jefferson wasn’t sitting in the green room waiting for his name to be called. Instead, Jefferson made a statement by showing up, taking a seat in the stands, and betting on himself.

That belief paid off.

The Brooklyn Nets selected Jefferson with the 28th overall pick after trading into the back end of the first round. His selection made him Iowa State’s first first-round NBA Draft pick since Tyrese Haliburton was selected in 2020.  

The image of Jefferson walking down from the stands after hearing his name called perfectly summed up his journey. After beginning his college career at Saint Mary’s and later transferring to Iowa State, Jefferson developed into one of the most complete players in college basketball. His senior season included averages of 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game while earning consensus All-American honors.  

Brooklyn is getting a versatile forward who can score, rebound, facilitate offense, and defend multiple positions. NBA analysts have praised Jefferson’s maturity, basketball IQ, and ability to impact games in a variety of ways.  

For Cyclone fans, Jefferson’s selection serves as another reminder that Iowa State has become a destination where NBA dreams can become reality.

Tamin Lipsey Gets His Shot

While draft night didn’t end with his name being called, Tamin Lipsey wasted little time finding an NBA home.

Shortly after the draft concluded, Lipsey agreed to an Exhibit 10 contract with the Indiana Pacers. The deal gives the former Cyclone point guard an opportunity to compete in Summer League and potentially earn a two-way contract or even a spot on Indiana’s regular-season roster.  

For Lipsey, the fit could not be more intriguing.

Not only does Indiana value tough, defensive-minded guards, but the organization already features former Cyclone star Tyrese Haliburton as its franchise cornerstone. The possibility of seeing two Iowa State point guards sharing the same locker room is a dream scenario for Cyclone Nation.

Lipsey’s relentless defense, leadership, and winning mentality made him one of the most beloved players in Iowa State history. While he may have gone undrafted, Exhibit 10 contracts have become a common pathway for players to earn NBA opportunities through strong Summer League and G League performances.  

A Big Night for Cyclone Basketball

The NBA Draft isn’t just about where players are selected—it’s about the continued growth of a program.

Joshua Jefferson’s first-round selection and Tamin Lipsey’s signing with the Pacers are further evidence that Iowa State basketball is producing professional talent at an elite level. Jefferson’s story is one of confidence and perseverance. Lipsey’s story is one of determination and opportunity.

One now heads to Brooklyn as a first-round draft pick. The other begins his professional journey in Indiana with a chance to play alongside one of the greatest Cyclones ever in Tyrese Haliburton.

Both stories are worth celebrating.

For Cyclone fans, draft night wasn’t just about where these players landed—it was another reminder that Iowa State basketball continues to rise on the national stage.

Sources: Iowa State Athletics, Sports Reference, Sports Illustrated