Fri Mar 21 11:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Iowa State Heads to NCAA Tournament Facing Injury Challenges, but with Hope for a Key Return

**Milwaukee, WI –** Iowa State’s NCAA Tournament hopes are hanging in the balance as they prepare for their first-round matchup against Lipscomb on Friday. The Cyclones will be without second-leading scorer Keshon Gilbert due to injury, but there’s a possibility of a significant boost to their lineup.

Guard Tamin Lipsey, who missed the Big 12 Tournament quarterfinal with a groin injury, expressed optimism about his availability for the game. Lipsey, a crucial defensive player with a school-record 235 career steals, is averaging 10.8 points and 3.2 assists this season. Coach T.J. Otzelberger lauded Lipsey’s toughness and confirmed he’s playing at a high level. Teammates echoed this sentiment, praising his resilience.

Gilbert’s absence, following a previous injury and absence from several recent games, leaves a hole in Iowa State’s offense, where he contributed 13.4 points and a team-high 4.1 assists per game. His absence has increased playing time for Nate Heise, who’s stepped up in recent games. Despite the injuries, Iowa State maintains a strong offensive core, remaining one of only 31 Division I teams with four players averaging at least 10 points per game.

Lipscomb coach Lennie Acuff downplayed the impact of Iowa State’s injuries, emphasizing his team’s own experience overcoming adversity after a key player’s injury earlier this season. He anticipates a strong performance from the Cyclones regardless. The game promises to be a closely fought contest with the outcome uncertain due to Iowa State’s injury situation and the determined Lipscomb Bison.

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