Iowa State star guard Tamin Lipsey is planning to return to Ames for the 2026-27 season as he continues pursuing a fifth year of eligibility, according to an announcement released by the university on Monday.
The news provides a major boost for head coach T.J. Otzelberger and the Cyclones, who could once again have one of the most experienced and accomplished guards in the Big 12 Conference leading the way next season. Lipsey recently became part of a court injunction in the State of Indiana that has opened the door for student-athletes seeking additional eligibility beyond the NCAA’s traditional limits.
Tamin Lipsey’s Iowa State Career
A native of Ames, Lipsey has been one of the faces of Iowa State basketball throughout his career, helping elevate the program into a consistent national contender. Known for his defensive intensity, leadership, and ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, Lipsey has developed into one of the conference’s most respected players during his time with the Cyclones.
Lipsey has been a staple of Iowa State basketball since arriving in Ames in 2022, developing into one of the Big 12’s premier two-way guards. A three-time All-Big 12 selection, three-time Big 12 All-Defensive Team pick and former Big 12 All-Freshman Team member, Lipsey has helped lead the Cyclones to four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances while establishing himself as one of the league’s top defenders and playmakers. During the 2025-26 season, Lipsey averaged 13.5 points, 5.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game while shooting 45.9% from the field across 34 games. He played a key role in Iowa State’s 27-8 season, helping the Cyclones reach the Big 12 Tournament semifinals before advancing to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, where their season ended with a loss to Tennessee.
His return would give Iowa State a proven veteran presence in the backcourt and a player who has been instrumental in the program’s success under Otzelberger. Lipsey has earned multiple All-Big 12 honors during his career and has been a key contributor on teams that have reached the NCAA Tournament and competed near the top of the conference standings.
For Iowa State fans, Monday’s announcement offers optimism heading into the future. While the eligibility situation remains tied to the ongoing legal process, the university’s release signals confidence that Lipsey will be back in a Cyclones uniform next season.
If approved, his return would instantly strengthen Iowa State’s outlook for 2026-27 and provide one of the league’s most experienced floor generals another opportunity to leave his mark on one of the Big 12’s premier programs.
