Babcock Hoops' scouting team covers extensive ground, with scouts strategically positioned across various regions to evaluate NBA prospects nationwide and beyond. Our talent evaluators attend specific matchups in person, developing these reports to establish an initial baseline on players or provide an updated assessment of their development. Unlike comprehensive scouting profiles, these evaluations focus exclusively on a player’s performance in a single game, emphasizing key takeaways and data points gathered from live scouting observations.
Final Score:
Iowa State 68 – Oklahoma State 74
Location:
Stillwater, OK
Game Summary
Oklahoma State secured a solid win over Iowa State despite an underwhelming overall performance. The Cyclones played without Keshon Gilbert, and Curtis Jones returned after missing time with illness but appeared out of rhythm. Joshua Jefferson stood out as Iowa State’s most impactful player, showcasing impressive versatility, but the team struggled to keep pace with OSU. Milan Momcilovic and Curtis Jones had moments but were largely inefficient, while Oklahoma State took advantage of Iowa State’s inconsistencies.
Key Prospects
Curtis Jones
Iowa State | Guard | 6’4” | 195 lbs | Senior
Returning after an illness, Jones struggled to find his groove. His shooting mechanics and footwork looked polished, but he lacked rhythm. Despite this, he displayed solid passing reads and used his quick bursts to attack gaps in OSU’s defense. While his frame appeared slighter in person than expected, his ability to develop physically could help him carve out a role in the G League and work his way up.
Milan Momcilovic
Iowa State | Forward | 6'8” | 225 lbs | Sophomore
Momcilovic had an inefficient shooting night but remained aggressive. He was decisive in his shot attempts, displaying a high release point and strong follow-through. His defensive effort stood out more than anticipated, as he used his size effectively to contest jumpers and cut off passing lanes. He still needs to expand his offensive repertoire beyond jump shots, but his potential as a three-and-D player remains intriguing.
Joshua Jefferson
Iowa State | Center | 6'9” | 240 lbs | Junior
Jefferson was the Cyclones' most impressive player, using his strong frame to make plays on both ends. Though not the most athletic player, he showcased solid ball-handling and defensive instincts, particularly in trap situations. His ability to initiate offense and find shooters or cutters made him valuable. While his jump shot remains a weakness, his defensive versatility and basketball IQ suggest he could become a key contributor at the next level.
Tamin Lipsey
Iowa State | Guard | 6'1” | 200 lbs | Junior
Lipsey looked undersized in person. While his on-ball defense was a strength, the rest of his game struggled. His ball-handling appeared loose, and his finishing was inconsistent despite his ability to get into the lane. His jump shot was also unreliable, as he missed short and long, raising concerns about his shooting mechanics. His lack of size may be a significant challenge in pursuing a professional career.
Final Thoughts
Oklahoma State capitalized on Iowa State’s inconsistencies, taking control early and holding off comeback attempts. The absence of Keshon Gilbert and Curtis Jones’ lack of rhythm hurt the Cyclones offensively. Joshua Jefferson’s versatility and Milan Momcilovic’s defensive impact stood out as bright spots, but Iowa State’s struggles were evident. The Cowboys’ performance wasn’t particularly impressive, but they executed well enough to secure the win at home.