Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC Here is the weekly review of the top performing Cyclones alumni, who are currently playing in pro basketball.
#1. Talen Horton-Tucker, a 6'4'' guard who graduated from Iowa State in 2019, has been making waves in the Turkish ING Basketbol Super Ligi as a standout player for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul. In a recent game against the eighth-ranked Erokspor, he showcased his skills by leading his team to a resounding 94-72 victory. Horton-Tucker's stellar performance earned him the title of the game's MVP, as he contributed 19 points and 4 assists in just 21 minutes on the court. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, currently sitting atop the league standings with a record of 25-5, has benefited greatly from Horton-Tucker's impressive play throughout the season. With solid averages of 13.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game in the 23 games he has played so far, he has proven to be a key player for his team. In the game against Erokspor, Horton-Tucker's impact was undeniable as he not only scored effectively but also contributed on the defensive end and facilitated his teammates' scoring opportunities. His all-around performance was crucial in securing the victory for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, propelling them to emerge as the champion in that matchup.
#2. Monte Morris, a 6'2'' guard and 30-year-old finalist of the Cyclones alumni from 2017, currently plays professionally in Greece. In a recent match against the closely-ranked AEK, Morris showcased his skills by contributing significantly to his team's dominant 95-68 victory in the Greek Stoiximan Basketball League. Despite playing for his team for the first season, Morris displayed his experience and talent by scoring 10 points and providing 5 assists in just 20 minutes on the court. This game, which was considered the highlight of the round between two top 4 ranked teams, witnessed Morris's impressive performance. His valuable contributions not only helped secure the win but also highlighted his capability as a champion player. Olympiacos S.F.P. Piraeus, currently at the top of the league with a flawless record of 24-0, has been benefitting from Morris's skills throughout the semi-finals, with the team winning all twenty-four games so far. In his first season with the team, Morris has been maintaining an average of 6.4 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game in the eleven games played this year. Morris's dedication, talent, and performance on the court reflect his potential as a champion player and a valuable asset to his team.
#3. Nick Weiler-Babb, a 6'5'' point guard who graduated from Iowa State in 2019, has been making waves in the Turkish basketball scene as he plays professionally for Anadolu Efes Istanbul. In a recent game against Turk Telekom, a closely-ranked opponent, Weiler-Babb showcased his skills by contributing significantly to his team's 77-70 victory. Despite scoring only 3 points, his impact was felt through his impressive 10 rebounds and 3 assists in just 28 minutes of play. Anadolu Efes Istanbul currently holds the fourth position in the Turkish ING Basketbol Super Ligi, and Weiler-Babb's arrival seems to have boosted the team's performance, as they secured their fourth consecutive win. This season marks his debut with the team, and his ability to make crucial plays was evident in the game against Turk Telekom. Weiler-Babb's stats for the season reflect his versatility on the court, averaging 5.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game over 24 appearances. Despite being a naturalized American, he has quickly adapted to the competitive Turkish basketball league and proven himself as a valuable asset to Anadolu Efes Istanbul. His exceptional performance against Turk Telekom highlights his potential as a true champion and key player for his team.
#4. In a thrilling matchup between two top 4 ranked teams in the Italian Serie A2, the experienced champion Tyrus McGee showcased his skills on the court for Tezenis Scaligera Verona. The 35-year-old shooting guard, who is an alum of Cyclones from 2013 and a recipient of the All-Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year award that year, played a pivotal role in Verona's victory over Fortitudo BO. McGee's performance was truly exceptional, as he contributed 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in just 28 minutes of play. His invaluable contributions were instrumental in securing the win for his team, further solidifying their position as a finalist in the league. This victory marked Tezenis Scaligera Verona's fourth consecutive win, with McGee consistently delivering standout performances throughout the season. With an impressive average of 15.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game in 41 appearances, McGee has undoubtedly been a key player for his team, leading them towards success in the league.
#5. Matt Thomas, a 6'5'' shooting guard aged 31, graduated from Iowa State in 2017 after aiding them in securing the Big 12 Tournament championship that year. Currently playing professionally in Turkey, he recently contributed to Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul's narrow 71-68 triumph over the seventh-ranked Galatasaray in a thrilling Turkish ING Basketbol Super Ligi derby game. Despite only playing 6 minutes, Thomas managed to score 3 crucial points and secure 1 rebound during the game. His modest but impactful performance not only helped his team clinch the victory but also underscored his prowess on the court, solidifying his reputation as a champion in the sport. With Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul holding the second spot in the league with a record of 25-5, Thomas continues to display his skills, averaging 7.2 points and 2.2 rebounds per game in the current season.
#6. Puerto Rican George Conditt IV, a 25-year-old center standing at 6'10'' and an alum of the Cyclones from 2022, was honored with a spot on the Puerto Rican BSN All-Star Team in the same year. Currently playing professionally in Puerto Rico, Conditt IV recently competed for Gigantes de Carolina against Mets. Despite his commendable efforts on the court, where he scored 8 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and played for 30 minutes, his team fell short with a final score of 90-94. In another game against Guaynabo, Conditt IV once again displayed his skills by contributing 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. However, despite his solid performance, his team was unable to secure a victory. Throughout this season, Conditt IV has been maintaining an average of 6.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game across 12 games.
#7. Experienced Canadian player Melvin Ejim, standing at 6'7'' and aged 35, is a former graduate of Iowa State from the class of 2014. During his time at college, he earned the prestigious All-Big 12 Player of the Year award. Currently, he is showcasing his skills as a professional player in Spain. In a recent match, Ejim, despite his commendable effort, was unable to lead Hiopos Forca Lleida to victory against UCAM. He contributed 5 points and 4 rebounds in 18 minutes of play, displaying a solid performance. Unfortunately, his team suffered a significant defeat, losing by 21 points with a final score of 116-95. Although Ejim displayed his prowess by scoring 5 points and grabbing 4 rebounds against Murcia, his team fell short in securing the win. Throughout this season, he has maintained respectable statistics, averaging 12.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game across 33 matches. Additionally, it is worth noting that Ejim holds a Nigerian passport, adding to his diverse background as a player.
#8. Burkinabe Bubu Palo, a 6'2'' shooting guard at 34 years old and a Cyclones alumnus from 2014, currently plays professionally in France. In a recent game, Palo, known for his skills on the court, unfortunately couldn't lead Nantes (22-16) to a victory. Despite his admirable performance, Nantes, faced with the higher-ranked (#4) ADA Blois, was narrowly defeated 84-81 on their home court. Palo managed to score 13 points within 22 minutes of play. Palo showcased his talent against Blois by not only scoring the aforementioned 13 points but also contributing 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Despite his noteworthy efforts, Nantes ultimately fell short in securing the win. Throughout this season, Palo has maintained an average of 9.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game across 22 appearances. It's worth noting that he is a naturalized American player, bringing a diverse skill set to the team.
#9. South Sudanese champion Emmanuel Malou, a 6'9'' forward/center who is 32 years old and a graduate of Iowa State in 2016, currently plays professionally in Australia. In a recent game, Malou was unable to help the Diamond Valley Eagles (4-9 record) as they suffered a 105-83 defeat on the road against the top-ranked Wildcats in the South group. Despite his solid performance, scoring 11 points and grabbing 2 rebounds in just 20 minutes of play, the 16th-placed Diamond Valley Eagles were overwhelmed by their opponents. Malou showcased his skills on the court by contributing 11 points and 2 rebounds against Eltham W, demonstrating his talent and capabilities. However, despite his individual efforts, his team was unable to secure a victory in that game. Throughout the season, Malou has maintained relatively good statistics, averaging 13.6 points per game and 5.1 rebounds per game over the course of 11 games. It is interesting to note that Malou holds dual American and South Sudanese citizenship, allowing him to play in South Sudan as a domestic player.
#10. Tre King, a 6'8'' forward and 26-year-old Cyclones alumni from the class of 2024, is currently showcasing his skills as a professional basketball player in Canada. His talent and experience were evident when he helped the Cyclones secure a victory in the Big 12 Tournament back in 2024. Recently, King has been making waves in the Canadian Elite Basketball League, playing for the Edmonton Stingers. In a thrilling match against the Surge, King led his team to a 104-98 victory on a Sunday night. His exceptional performance earned him the title of MVP as he contributed significantly with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists in just 29 minutes of play. In another standout game against Calgary, King once again proved his prowess on the court by scoring 18 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and providing 3 assists, ultimately leading his team to be crowned as the champion. His consistent contributions have helped him maintain solid statistics this season, averaging 14.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game across five games.
Other former Iowa State University players, who play in pro basketball:
Will Clyburn (6'7''-F-1990, played in 2011-11) plays for FC Barcelona Lassa in Spanish Liga Endesa
Hason Ward (6'9''-F-2000, played in 2022-24) plays for Umana Reyer Venezia in Italian Serie A
Tyrese Haliburton (6'5''-G-2000, played in 2018-20) plays for Indiana Pacers in the NBA
Curtis Jones (6'4''-G-2001, played in 2023-25) plays for Denver Nuggets in the NBA
Keshon Gilbert (6'4''-G-2003, played in 2023-25) plays for Atlanta Hawks in the NBA
Georges Niang (6'8''-F-1993, played in 2012-16) plays for Utah Jazz in the NBA
Solomon Young (6'8''-C-1998, played in 2016-21) plays for Voluntari in Romanian Liga Nationala
Zoran Talley (6'6''-SF-1994, played in 2017-19) played for Univ.Concepcion in Chilean LNB few monts ago
Nazareth Mitrou-Long (6'4''-G-1993, played in 2012-17) plays for Napoli in Italian Serie A
Deonte Burton (6'4''-G/F-1994, played in 2015-17) plays for Guangzhou Loong Lions in Chinese CBA
Lindell Wigginton (6'1''-G-1998, played in 2017-19) plays for Guangzhou Loong Lions in Chinese CBA
Osun Osunniyi (6'10''-F/C-1998, played in 2023-23) plays for MLP Academics Heidelberg in German BBL
Georgios Tsalmpouris (7'1''-C-1996, played in 2014-16) plays for Panionios in Greek GBL
Aljaz Kunc (6'9''-PF-1999, played in 2021-23) plays for Arriva Polski Cukier Torun in Polish OBL
Chris Babb (6'5''-F/G-1990, played in 2010-10) plays for BCM Gravelines Dunkerque in French Betclic ELITE ProA
Jaren Holmes (6'4''-G-1998, played in 2022-23) plays for Olomoucko in Czech Republic NBL
Prentiss Nixon (6'0''-PG-1997, played in 2018-18) plays for B.Braun Sheffield Sharks in British SLB
DeAndre Kane (6'5''-F/G-1989, played in 2013-14) plays for Grindavik in Icelandic Subway League
Izaiah Brockington (6'4''-G-1999, played in 2021-22) plays for Liaoning Flying Leopards in Chinese CBA
Gabe Kalscheur (6'4''-G-1999, played in 2023-24) plays for Ourense in Spanish Primera FEB
Robert Jones (6'10''-F-2001, played in 2021-24) plays for Imortal in Portuguese Liga Betclic
Brandton Chatfield (6'10''-F-2001, played in 2024-25) plays for Nuernberg Falcons BC in German ProA
Chris Allen (6'3''-G-1988) played for Chicago Triplets in the Big3 last year
Dustin Hogue (6'6''-PF-1992, played in 2012-16) plays for Rieti in Italian Serie A2
Daniel Edozie (6'8''-F-1992, played in 2013-15) plays for Bristol Hurricanes in British BCB
Cameron Lard (6'9''-C-1997, played in 2016-16) played for Metapan in Salvadorean Liga MB last year
Jiri Hubalek (6'10''-C-1982, played in 2005-08) played for Sennori in Italian Serie B Interregionale last year
Donovan Jackson (6'2''-G-1996, played in 2016-18) plays for Astros de Jalisco in Mexican CIBACOPA
Marial Shayok (6'5''-SF-1995, played in 2017-17) plays for Altiri Chiba in Japanese B1 League
Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of Iowa State University basketball alumni.
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