Oct 30, 2026 · 31 min
Iowa State reshapes its offense around paint pressure
Iowa State Basketball Preview: Nate Schmidt on Tamin Lipsey, Killyan Toure, & More
With injuries, roster turnover, and new staff complicating the opener, Iowa State is searching for reliable scoring and defensive cohesion.
- 1Iowa State expects more paint attacks, free throws, floaters, and interior scoring than in recent perimeter-driven seasons.
- 2Tamin Lipsey’s eventual return could provide a midseason boost as the staff evaluates rotations, roles, and dependable late-game options.
- 3Pressure defense, efficient shot selection, and a low-ego culture are central to integrating new players and sustaining depth.
Don't miss
Nate Schmidt explains why Iowa State is moving toward a more paint-oriented offense rather than relying primarily on elite perimeter shooting.
The brief
Ahead of the opener against Memphis, Nate Schmidt describes an Iowa State team remaking itself around roster turnover, new staff, injuries, and the long process of building cohesion.
The offense is shifting toward paint attacks, floaters, free throws, and interior scoring, while Dom Plata and other frontcourt players develop into larger contributors.
Tamin Lipsey’s eventual return is framed as a midseason boost, but the immediate challenge is finding reliable late-game scorers among a deep group of capable players.
Schmidt points to Batemon’s growth, sharper shot selection, and pressure defense as signs that Iowa State can create transition chances without sacrificing control.
The episode’s broader argument is cultural: high-character players, intense practices, and shared accountability must turn a frequently changing roster into a connected team.
Weekly email
State of the Pod, every Monday
The week's most-discussed names and stories from podcasts, with the moments behind them. Free, five minutes, unsubscribe in one click.