Iowa State will still be without Keshon Gilbert, which might be more of a factor in this game as compared to their first game against the Bison. Ole Miss has six players averaging in double figures which will be needed against the 8th ranked defense in terms of efficiency. The Rebels have played the more difficult schedule and had a little lull towards the end of the season but have been playing better when it matters and have an experienced team to stay within the number.

ISU was gifted a first-round mismatch against Lipscomb, but still not convinced all is good with the Cyclones. Remember, ISU closed the regular season only 8-7, and key cog G Keshon Gilbert (13.4 ppg), valued on both ends of the court, is out for the duration, and matchups could prove awkward vs. Ole Miss. Chris Beard has waved a magic wand in March before and his Rebs survived the treacherous SEC in good enough shape to easily quality for the Dance, and for 30 or so minutes played flawlessly vs. North Carolina on Friday. Beard has six double-digit scorers, length, experience, and toughness on the perimeter, and a designated bomber in VPI transfer Sean Pedulla (15 ppg; 39% triples). Play Ole Miss (NCAA at Milwaukee)

The Iowa State Cyclones get an advantage today over Ole Miss over the simple fact of the ease of their first round matchup. They cruised in a twenty seven point win over Lipscomb. The victory is a confidence boost for the Cyclones that know they can play without Keshon Gilbert. On the other side Ole Miss had a battle to get by North Carolina, which can hurt a team in the round of 32. Look for the Cyclones to impress once again on a reduced favored number. Lay it with Iowa State.