Iowa State players and head coach Steve Prohm tried to sound upbeat after the Cyclones dropped their season finale against Texas Tech, making it six losses in the final eight games for ISU. But it's hard to look at the 'Clones as the same team that started the season 18-5. They still have an extremely dynamic player in Marial Shayok and an efficient offense, but they became vulnerable at the other end late in the season, and that contributed mightily to the 2-6 slide.
ISU has weapons and skill, but if its defense continues to struggle, will it find the significant burst necessary for tournament success?
ESPN Insider has your answers, as Joe Lunardi has enlisted a team of bracketologists to compile advanced metrics, key scouting intel, and best- and worst-case tournament scenarios for all 68 teams to help you make smart picks in your bracket.