KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Iowa State seniors Curtis Jones and Keshon Gilbert have been recognized for their outstanding performances this season by being named to the NABC All-Central District Teams. Jones earned a first team selection, reflecting his contributions both on and off the court, while Gilbert received a spot on the second team, marking a significant achievement for the duo.
Jones, who was also honored as the Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year, led the Cyclones in scoring with an impressive average of 17.1 points per game. This season, he drilled 83 three-pointers, displaying a remarkable ability to score from beyond the arc. With a remarkable average of 17.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.0 steals per game off the bench, Jones has proven himself to be a vital asset in Iowa State's lineup. His production from the bench is notable; no other player in the country averaged more points per game while coming off the bench this season. This accolade is the first of his career and highlights his significant role in the Cyclones' success.
“Curtis has shown he is one of the best Sixth Men in America this season, and he truly deserves these accolades,” said the Iowa State head coach.
Meanwhile, Keshon Gilbert has also made headlines with his performance, being named to the All-Big 12 Third Team this year. Averaging 13.8 points, 4.3 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game, Gilbert has been a key contributor to the Cyclones' success. His career reached a notable peak during the senior night game against BYU, where he recorded 13 points, eight steals, three rebounds, two blocks, and an assist. This performance made him the third player in Big 12 history to achieve those numbers in a game, and he is the first player in the country to do so this season. This is the first time he has received such honors as well.
“Keshon is a key player for us, contributing significantly to our team’s success and making impressive plays throughout the season,” a teammate remarked, emphasizing Gilbert’s importance on both ends of the court.
The recognition of both players is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time Iowa State has had a player earn All-America honors in back-to-back seasons since Tamin Lipsey was named to the same team last season. Furthermore, it’s been a long time since the Cyclones have seen back-to-back AP All-Americans; Georges Niang achieved this in 2015 and 2016. Jones's recent accolade places him in a unique and prestigious category at Iowa State.
The No. 15 ranked Cyclones are preparing for their upcoming challenge in the NCAA Tournament, ready to showcase their talents on a national stage. Facing 14th-seeded Lipscomb on Friday, March 21, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, they are eager to put their skills to the test in the First Round. The game is set to tip off at 12:30 p.m. on TNT, and fans are hopeful that both Jones and Gilbert will continue their outstanding play into the tournament.
This upcoming game is not just another match; it's an opportunity for the Cyclones to build on their successes this season and make a deeper run in the NCAA Tournament. With players like Jones and Gilbert leading the way, their chances of capitalizing on this moment are strong. As the excitement builds, supporters and analysts alike wait to see what the Cyclones can achieve against Lipscomb, hoping they carry their momentum and individual accolades straight into the heart of March Madness.
