Game Preview

The Iowa State Cyclones open their season on November 3, 2025 by welcoming the Fairleigh Dickinson Knights to Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa. Tip‑off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET and the game will air on ESPN+. Sportsbooks favor the Cyclones by around 27.5 points with a total near 144.5, reflecting Iowa State’s stout defense and FDU’s rebuilding offense (Iowa State vs Fairleigh Dickinson Prediction, Odds & Picks).

Team Analysis

• Iowa State Cyclones: Under coach T.J. Otzelberger, the Cyclones have built their identity on defense, ranking among the top teams nationally in forced turnover rate. They return lead guard Tamin Lipsey and versatile wing Keshon Gilbert while adding transfer shooters like Curtis Jones. The Cyclones play at a deliberate pace and rely on physicality inside. ScoresAndStats notes that Iowa State opened as a 27.5-point favorite and expects them to impose their will on both ends (Iowa State vs Fairleigh Dickinson Prediction, Odds & Picks).
• Fairleigh Dickinson Knights: Two seasons removed from their stunning upset of Purdue in the NCAA tournament, the Knights are in transition. Coach Jack Castleberry must replace several starters, leaving guards Ansley Almonor and Heru Bligen to shoulder the scoring load. FDU plays an up‑tempo style but struggled defensively last year, allowing over 77 points per game. Against a physical Big 12 foe on the road, their undersized frontcourt may get overwhelmed.

Betting Pick & Prediction

Iowa State should dominate this matchup with their smothering defense and balanced scoring. Their ability to force turnovers will create easy transition opportunities, while FDU’s inexperience will show against a disciplined Cyclone squad. With such a large spread, laying the points with Iowa State is still attractive given how few quality shots the Knights are likely to get.

Best Bet: Iowa State −27.5 – Look for the Cyclones to suffocate FDU and win by 30+.
Over/Under: Under 144.5 – Iowa State’s pace and defensive intensity should keep the scoring in check.

Final Score Prediction

Iowa State 84, Fairleigh Dickinson 56
Expect the Cyclones to showcase their defensive chops and cruise to a comfortable opening‑night victory while covering the spread and keeping the game under the total.