Summary

Moments after Iowa State received a No. 3 seed for the 2025 NCAA Tournament, it was disclosed by Cyclones Coach T.J. Otzelberger that senior guard Keshon Gilbert, the team’s second-leading scorer, will be unavailable for the tournament due to injury.

Gilbert has been an instrumental part of the team, averaging 13.4 points and 4.1 assists per game this season.

“We’ve decided he needs to focus on his rehab and getting his body back right, so he won’t be available as we move forward,” said Otzelberger.

Background on Team and Tournament

With a season record of 24-9 and a notable position in the AP poll, Iowa State’s chances were bolstered by the performance of players like Gilbert.

Injuries can significantly affect team standings and decisions made by selection committees, as highlighted by various cases in previous tournaments.