Every Iowa State fan has their own version of a Mount Rushmore. Ask ten Cyclone fans and you’ll probably get ten different answers. After spending 35 years watching this program, I finally settled on mine: Fred Hoiberg, Melvin Ejim, Georges Niang, and Tamin Lipsey.

I’ll admit, narrowing the list to just four players was incredibly difficult.

There are so many Cyclone legends who deserve to be part of the conversation. Players like Jamaal Tinsley, Jeff Hornacek, Monte Morris, Victor Alexander, and many others helped shape Iowa State basketball into what it is today. Leaving those names off wasn’t easy.

When making my choices, I certainly looked at production and accomplishments, but statistics weren’t the deciding factor. What mattered most to me was each player’s lasting impact on the Iowa State basketball program—both on the court and off it.

Fred Hoiberg is the easiest choice on my list. “The Mayor” represents everything Iowa State basketball strives to be. As a player, he became one of the greatest shooters and leaders in school history while earning the admiration of an entire fan base. He carried himself with class, represented the university with pride, and his connection to Iowa State has never faded. His impact extends far beyond his playing career, making him a true ambassador for Cyclone basketball.

Melvin Ejim embodied toughness, consistency, and relentless effort. Every night, you knew exactly what you were going to get from Ejim. He outworked opponents, competed on every possession, and developed into the Melvin Ejim Big 12 Player of the Year. His leadership helped establish a winning culture that became the standard for future teams, and he remains one of the greatest examples of what it means to wear Iowa State across your chest.

Georges Niang changed the perception of Iowa State basketball. He wasn’t just one of the most skilled offensive players the program has ever seen—he was the face of one of the greatest eras in Cyclone history. His personality, confidence, and love for Hilton Coliseum made him an instant fan favorite. More importantly, he helped turn Iowa State into a nationally respected program that expected to compete for championships every season.

Finally, there’s Tamin Lipsey. His place on my Mount Rushmore isn’t just about wins, steals, or assists. It’s about loyalty. In an era when college basketball is defined by constant transfers and player movement, Lipsey chose to stay home. The Ames native lived out his childhood dream by wearing the Cardinal and Gold for his entire career while becoming one of the greatest defensive players and leaders in program history. His commitment, humility, and love for Iowa State represent everything fans hope to see in a Cyclone. He didn’t simply play for Iowa State—he embodied what it means to be a Cyclone.

Looking at these four players together, there’s a common thread. They all produced at an elite level, but more importantly, they left Iowa State basketball better than they found it. They built culture, inspired future generations, connected with fans, and represented the university with pride.

That’s ultimately what my Mount Rushmore is about.

It’s not just recognizing the best players. It’s honoring the players whose influence will continue to be felt inside Hilton Coliseum long after their final game.

Those are the players who define Iowa State basketball for me.