2009-2010 Iowa State Predictions
2008-09 Record: (15-17, 4-12 Big 12)
Coach: Greg McDermott (4th year, 44-51 at Iowa State)
Assistants: Jeff Rutter, T.J. Olzelberger, Daniyal Robinson
Ret. Starters/Lost: 4/1

Need winning college basketball predictions each week? Visit ATS Consultants and sign-up for the free sports picks newsletter for college basketball betting information and free college basketball picks

Overview: The Cyclones return four of five starters from a team that finished last in the Big 12 in 3-point percentage, making just 34.6 percent of their shots. So this season, emphasis was on making a better percentage, despite the fact that they set the school record by making 236 3-point baskets (7.4 per game. Junior guard Lucca Staiger (6-5, 225) is a German import who led the team with 74 3-pointers, averaging 8.2ppg. The point guard returns in junior Diante Garrett (6-4, 185), who averaged 9.8ppg, 5apg and 3.3rpg. They also add sophomore Scott Christopherson (6-3, 205), a transfer from Marquette and senior Marquis Gilstrap (6-6, 210), who was a big-time scorer at Gulf Coast Community College (22.6ppg). Up front, the Cyclones return the fourth-leading returning scorer in the country in junior center Craig Brackins (6-10, 230), who averaged 20.2ppg and 9.5rpg. He also had 15 double-doubles. Senior Jamie Vanderbeken (6-11, 245) adds 5.5ppg and 3rpg and height, along with the ability to knock down a three (35-of-86). Freshman L.A. Pomlee (6-8, 235) redshirted last year and will provide depth up front.

Outlook: Iowa State has a nice player in Brackins, but still needs to provide more help. If they shoot better from the three-point line or get to the basket more often, this team could surprise some.

This Big 12 conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college basketball betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com

If you enjoyed this article then you may be interested in:

1. 2009-2010 Iowa College Basketball Predictions
2. College Basketball Betting: Drake vs. Iowa State Picks: December 9th 2008
3. Iowa vs. Iowa State Betting Odds, Pick & Point Spread: September 12th 2009
4. College Basketball Betting: Iowa vs. Duquesne Odds & Pick: November 17th 2009
5. 2009-2010 Oklahoma State College Basketball Predictions