Iowa State leveraged their top 25 finish by making strategic acquisitions in the transfer portal during the offseason. Now, they’re aiming to meet the heightened expectations for the 2024-25 season.
These four transfers bolster the Cyclones’ offensive capabilities and bring valuable experience, complementing their already potent offensive game plan.
Coach Bill Fennelly emphasized the team’s emphasis on shooters, noting their preference for players who can consistently make shots rather than just attempt them. Last season, Iowa State had five players shooting above 38 percent from beyond the arc, with four returning to the roster. Among the new additions, guards Lily Hansford, Mackenzie Hare, and Sydney Harris all boasted impressive three-point shooting percentages.
This aligns well with Iowa State’s offensive strategy, which thrives on spreading the floor and taking high-percentage shots. With returning players like Addy Brown, Kelsey Joens, Arianna Jackson, and Emily Ryan, along with the emergence of sophomore center Audi Crooks and new addition Lilly Taulelei, the team is poised to dominate both inside and outside.
Fennelly drew inspiration from Purdue’s style of play, particularly their ability to spread the floor for dominant inside players like Zach Edey. Iowa State aims to replicate this approach by adding length and experience to their roster.
After a strong finish last season, reaching the Big 12 Championship game and the NCAA Tournament’s second round, Iowa State aims to build on their success. While they showed flashes of brilliance, they also faced challenges typical of a young team finding its footing at the college level.
Now armed with one of their most talented rosters in recent memory, Iowa State is poised to make a statement in the upcoming season. With high expectations and a hunger for success, the Cyclones are ready to embrace the challenge and reach new heights under Fennelly’s leadership.
