Iowa State's Defensive Dynasty Continues | Big 12 Basketball News

Iowa State’s defense is about to go nuclear under T.J. Otzelberger, with CBS Sports predicting them to lead the nation in defensive efficiency in 2026-27. After turning around a struggling program, they’re stocked with lockdown talent: Jaquan Johnson (MVC Defensive Player of the Year), Killyan Toure stepping into the point guard role, Blake Buchanan’s athleticism, and a frontcourt anchored by Dorian Rinaldo-Komlan and Dominykas Pleta. Wing defenders Leon Bond III and Tre Singleton add heat, while Xzavion Mitchell looks to rebound from injury. With depth and a relentless trapping identity, Otzelberger’s squad is built to disrupt every game — and dominate the NCAA tournament conversation again. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1c4e0c4ec9ea4f06