2025-26 Big 12 Basketball - Colorado vs. (#8) Iowa State Preview: Can the Buffaloes upset the Cyclones? January 29, 2026 by Marc Jerbs

Colorado and (#8) Iowa State meet Thursday, January 29, in a key Big 12 men's basketball matchup at James H. Hilton Coliseum, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 PM EST. As conference play intensifies, games like this carry increased importance for momentum, schedule strength, and positioning within one of the nation's most competitive leagues.

This contest highlights a clear stylistic contrast: Colorado relies on offensive balance and versatile scoring, while Iowa State depends on defensive pressure, physicality, and effort-based scoring. With Hilton Coliseum's atmosphere playing a major role, execution and composure will be essential from tip-off.

Colorado's Offensive Identity Faces a Tough Road Test

Colorado's success this season comes from offensive versatility and disciplined half-court execution. The Buffaloes move the ball effectively, generate scoring from multiple positions, and can stretch defenses with spacing. When ball movement is crisp, Colorado can score efficiently at all three levels, making them difficult to guard.

On the road, however, Colorado has sometimes struggled with ball security and defensive rebounding. Against Iowa State's pressure-heavy defense, turnovers and missed boards can quickly swing momentum. Limiting mistakes and finishing possessions will be key if Colorado hopes to stay competitive in Ames.

Iowa State's Defensive Pressure Anchored by Home-Court Dominance

Iowa State's identity is rooted in relentless defensive pressure and effort-based scoring. The Cyclones challenge ball-handlers, attack passing lanes, and force opponents into uncomfortable possessions that often result in turnovers or rushed shots. Hilton Coliseum amplifies this approach, making it one of the toughest environments for visiting teams.

Offensively, Iowa State generates points through transition opportunities, offensive rebounds, and free throws rather than relying solely on perimeter shooting. While half-court efficiency can fluctuate, their defensive intensity and home-court energy often offset any scoring droughts.

Colorado vs. Iowa State Sports Bet Odds

The Cyclones are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• The Cyclones are favored by 18 points, with a money line of -115.
• The Buffaloes are the underdogs by 18 points, with a money line of -105.
• The Total is set at 154 points, with the over at -105 and the under at -115.

Key Matchup: Colorado Guards vs. Iowa State Defensive Pressure

The defining battle in this matchup is Colorado's ball-handlers versus Iowa State's pressure defense. The Cyclones aim to speed up opponents; force rushed decisions and turn live-ball turnovers into transition scoring opportunities.

If Colorado can handle pressure cleanly and execute in the half court, they can create quality shots and manage tempo. If Iowa State dictates pace through defensive disruption, the Cyclones are positioned to control the game and feed off crowd-driven momentum.

Injury Report

Colorado Buffaloes: Colorado enters the matchup relatively healthy, with no significant injuries reported among key starters. The team appears to be at full strength, giving the Buffaloes their top scorers and main rotation players available for this road test.

Iowa State Cyclones: Iowa State is monitoring the status of senior guard Tamin Lipsey, who has dealt with a lower-body issue (groin) earlier in the season. While he has returned to action, his availability and minutes could be limited depending on how he feels leading into game day. Lipsey's participation could play a key role in the Cyclones' backcourt performance and overall depth.

X-Factors to Watch

Early momentum will be crucial, as Iowa State frequently establishes pace and physicality quickly at home. Colorado must weather the opening stretch and avoid allowing defensive stops to snowball into extended runs.

Bench production, rebounding effort, and free-throw efficiency could also play pivotal roles. In a physical Big 12 matchup, second-chance points and execution at the line often determine which team gains late separation.

Final Thought

This matchup captures the grind and intensity of Big 12 basketball. Colorado has the offensive tools to compete, but success will hinge on patience, ball security, and discipline under sustained defensive pressure.

Iowa State will look to impose its defensive identity and leverage Hilton Coliseum's energy to its advantage. If the Cyclones control effort plays and tempo—and if Lipsey is available at a high level—they will be difficult to beat at home, making this a demanding road test for the Buffaloes in late January.

2025-26 Colorado vs. Iowa State Regular Season Team Stats

COLORADO BUFFALOES	VS	IOWA STATE CYCLONES
12th Big 12 (2-5) | Overall (12-8) Away (1-3) | STRK L5	Standings	5th Big 12 (5-2) | 8th Overall (18-2) Home (11-0) | STRK W2
47.8	Field Goal Percentage	50.7
82.6	Points Per Game	85.6
35.3	Rebounds Per Game	36.8
15.9	Assists Per Game	18.1
3.6	Blocks Per Game	3.2