• When fully healthy, this has looked like one of the best teams in the nation, with the backcourt duo of Tamin Lipsey and Keshon Gilbert as good as any you're likely to see in March.
• The Cyclones are tall, experienced and balanced, coming into the tournament in KenPom's Top 25 in both offensive and defensive efficiency despite struggling down the stretch, doing a break even 7-7 in their last 14.
• One of the more annoying teams you're likely to play as no Big 12 team turned their opponents over more often or took more steals.
• If in an alternative universe, forced to pick one Big 12 coach to fist fight for your life, we're not sure who you should pick, but do not pick T.J. Otzelberger, who looks ripped up like a young Dan Gable. Here is what AI has to say: The head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball team is known for his compact, sturdy frame, described as resembling that of a wrestler, with a lean to musclebound build and a sturdy upper body. Also, he's old, but avoid Kelvin Sampson, too. Dude is tough.
• Scoring inside against the Cyclones is a nightmare, with the height of Dishon Jackson and Joshua Jefferson quickly closing out interior threats. The overall length means if you don't pop the 3, you're not beating this team.
Shawn O'Neal
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