Where Should the Cyclones Be Ranked Following Their Historic Win Over Purdue?
Following their monumental upset over the first-ranked Purdue Boilermakers, the Iowa State Cyclones have made a statement that demands recognition: they deserve to be considered the best team in college basketball. This wasn’t just another win; it was a defining moment in the NIL era, a victory that showcased the Cyclones’ depth, resilience, and star power. To walk into Mackey Arena, one of the most hostile environments in the sport, and dismantle Purdue on their home floor is the kind of achievement that should catapult Iowa State to the very top of the rankings. The question isn’t whether they belong in the conversation for number one; the question is why they shouldn’t already be there.
The Cyclones’ case is built on more than just one game. Their dominance in the NIL players era tournament proved they can thrive under the brightest lights, and their roster is stacked with talent that has consistently delivered. Milan Momcilovic has been nothing short of spectacular, emerging as a player who can take over games with his scoring ability and versatility. His presence alone makes Iowa State dangerous, but he is far from the only weapon. Tamin Lipsey has been the heartbeat of the team, orchestrating the offense with precision and poise, while Joshua Jefferson has provided a steady two-way impact that championship teams rely on. Killyan Toure has anchored the paint with toughness and defensive grit, giving the Cyclones the balance they need to compete with anyone. This isn’t a team carried by one star; it’s a complete unit, firing on all cylinders.
Critics may argue that other programs have stronger resumes. Michigan has been steady, Duke continues to reload with elite talent, Arizona dazzles with its high-powered offense, and UConn remains the reigning champion with a pedigree that commands respect. Yet none of these teams have delivered a win as significant as Iowa State’s takedown of Purdue. Rankings should reflect not only consistency but also the ability to rise to the occasion against the very best. Iowa State has done exactly that, and in a convincing fashion. Their victory wasn’t a nail-biter or a lucky break; it was a demonstration of superiority in one of the toughest venues in college basketball.
Momentum matters, and right now, no team has more of it than the Cyclones. They have proven they can dominate tournaments, silence hostile crowds, and rely on a roster filled with stars who step up when it matters most. The narrative of this season has shifted, and Iowa State is at its center. To deny them the number one ranking would be to ignore the evidence staring us in the face. They have earned it, and their résumé are only growing stronger with each passing game. The Cyclones aren’t just knocking on the door of greatness; they’ve already kicked it down. It’s time to reward them accordingly and recognize Iowa State as the top team in the nation.
