Last Updated on April 27, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Iowa State Cyclones men’s basketball program has produced a solid and underrated pipeline of NBA talent, including All-Stars, high-level guards, and long-tenured professionals. While not a traditional powerhouse, Iowa State has sent 40+ players to the NBA/ABA throughout its history.
Best NBA Players From Iowa State Cyclones (All-Time Greats)
- Tyrese Haliburton – All-Star guard and one of the league’s elite playmakers
- Jeff Hornacek – All-Star and one of the best shooters of his era
- Marcus Fizer – No. 4 overall pick and dominant college scorer
- Jamaal Tinsley – Elite passer and starting NBA point guard
- Kelvin Cato – Long-tenured defensive center
Iowa State’s top players are defined by high-level guard play and offensive skill, with multiple players excelling as playmakers and scorers. (Interbasket)
Notable Iowa State Players in the NBA (Modern Era)
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Georges Niang
- Monte Morris
- Talen Horton-Tucker
Iowa State has remained relevant in the modern NBA, producing skilled guards and versatile forwards who fit today’s pace-and-space style.
Full List of Iowa State Cyclones NBA Players
Here are many of the Iowa State alumni who reached the NBA:
- Zaid Abdul-Aziz
- Jarrett Allen
- Barry Booker
- Craig Brackins
- Lyndon Brookshire
- Melvin Ejim
- Marcus Fizer
- Fred Hoiberg
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Royce White
- Jeff Hornacek
- Talen Horton-Tucker
- Naz Mitrou-Long
- Monte Morris
- Georges Niang
- Jamaal Tinsley
- Kelvin Cato
- Dedric Willoughby
- Will Blalock
- Gary Thompson
- Chris Babb
- Abdel Nader
- Lindell Wigginton
- Jameel McKay
- Deonte Burton
- Mike Taylor
- Justus Thigpen
- Kenny Pratt
- Greg Stokes
- Ron Harris
- Jeff Grayer
- Victor Alexander
- Paul Shirley
- Jackson Vroman
- Curtis Stinson
- Rahshon Clark
- Marquis Gilstrap
- Bryce Dejean-Jones
- Diante Garrett
- Matt Thomas
- Rasir Bolton
(Iowa State has produced 40+ NBA players overall.)
Iowa State’s NBA Legacy
Iowa State’s NBA identity is built around elite guard development and basketball IQ. The program has produced:
- Multiple All-Star–level guards
- High-level playmakers and shooters
- Consistent modern NBA contributors
The Cyclones are particularly known for producing smart, efficient guards who transition well into NBA systems.
Summary
- Iowa State has produced 40+ NBA players
- Known for elite guards and playmakers
- Features All-Star talent and long careers
- Strong and consistent NBA pipeline