Iowa State Basketball Faces Major Test Against St. John’s in Las Vegas Showdown

No. 16 Iowa State brings its perfect record to a high-stakes battle Monday. The Cyclones clash with No. 14 St. John’s in the Players Era Championship. Tip-off is at 3:30 PM CT from Las Vegas. This matchup is a critical early-season test for both ranked teams.

The game will be broadcast nationally on truTV. Iowa State enters with a 4-0 record and elite offensive numbers. St. John’s, under coach Rick Pitino, is 3-1 with a powerful roster.

Iowa State’s Dominant Start to the Season

The Cyclones have been flawless to open the 2025-26 campaign. They have won each of their first four games decisively. Every victory featured at least 85 points scored.

The team is shooting above 50% from the field overall. This offensive efficiency is among the nation’s best. According to ESPN analytics, their scoring margin is impressive.

Guard Tamin Lipsey and forward Joshua Jefferson lead the charge. Both players have scored over 75 points already this season. Their performances have fueled the team’s strong start.

St. John’s Presents a Formidable Challenge

The Red Storm are not an ordinary opponent. They entered the season with their highest preseason ranking ever at No. 5. Coach Rick Pitino rebuilt the roster with the nation’s top transfer class.

Their lone loss came against powerhouse Alabama. The final score was a narrow 103-96 defeat. That game proved St. John’s can compete with elite teams.

They possess significant size and scoring depth. Players like Zuby Ejiofor and Bryce Hopkins are major threats. This will be Iowa State’s toughest defensive assignment yet.

Key Matchups and Game Implications

The point guard battle will be fascinating to watch. Tamin Lipsey’s playmaking for Iowa State is crucial. He faces a St. John’s backcourt known for its pressure defense.

Joshua Jefferson’s interior presence is equally vital. He must contend with St. John’s formidable frontcourt. His ability to score efficiently will be tested.

This game carries weight beyond a single result. It is part of the new Players Era Championship format. Performance here affects seeding for the later bracket stages.

A win would significantly boost Iowa State’s resume. It would validate their hot start against a ranked foe. A loss, however, would provide a reality check on their early success.

The outcome of this Iowa State basketball showdown will reveal much about both teams’ tournament potential as the season progresses.

Dropping this nugget your way

What is the Players Era Championship?

The Players Era Championship is a new early-season tournament in Las Vegas. It features 18 top college basketball teams competing for a large prize pool. The event aims to provide high-profile matchups and exposure for programs.

How has Iowa State performed in Las Vegas historically?

Historically, Iowa State has struggled in games played in Las Vegas. The program’s all-time record there is just 2 wins and 7 losses. This adds an interesting historical challenge to Monday’s contest.

Who are Iowa State’s players to watch?

Guard Tamin Lipsey and forward Joshua Jefferson are the standout performers. Both are on national award watch lists. Their scoring and efficiency have driven the team’s early success.

What is at stake in this game?

Beyond the win-loss record, this game impacts tournament seeding and national perception. It’s a quality opportunity for a resume-building victory. The result will influence upcoming AP Top 25 rankings.

Where can fans watch the game?

The game will be televised nationally on truTV. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM Central Time. It will be played at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.

What is St. John’s biggest strength?

St. John’s biggest strength is its roster depth and talent acquired via the transfer portal. Coach Rick Pitino assembled a group that can score from multiple positions. They play with high tempo and pressure.