From Iowa State Cyclones On SI · · 1m 30s
Iowa State opens Big 12 play with Arizona showdown
The Cyclones face a top-five opponent at home on Jan. 2, possibly without injured guard Killyan Toure.
In brief
The Cyclones face a top-five opponent at home on Jan. 2, possibly without injured guard Killyan Toure. Iowa State's Big 12 conference opener against Arizona on January 2 will be a major test against the league's projected best team. Originally reported by Iowa State Cyclones On SI.
Cyclones contending in Big 12 again
Iowa State's men's basketball team is positioned as one of the top contenders in the Big 12 conference this season.
Arizona comes to Ames Jan. 2
The Cyclones will host the Arizona Wildcats at Hilton Coliseum on January 2 to open their conference schedule.
Wildcats projected as conference's best
Arizona is expected to be the top team in the Big 12 and will likely start the season ranked in the top five nationally.
Toure's return still uncertain
Sophomore guard Killyan Toure is recovering from summer shoulder surgery with a projected January return timeline.
Last year's blowout in Tucson
Iowa State lost badly to Arizona in the regular season last year, falling 73-57 at McKale Center.
Buzzer beater ended tournament run
In the Big 12 tournament, Iowa State led for long stretches but lost 82-80 when Jaden Bradley hit a game-winner at the buzzer.
Both rosters feature new faces
Iowa State and Arizona each lost key players to the NBA draft and graduation but are still projected to have strong teams.
Single game against six opponents
Arizona is one of six Big 12 teams Iowa State will face only once this season, all at home in Ames.
The bottom line
Iowa State's Big 12 conference opener against Arizona on January 2 will be a major test against the league's projected best team.
