The Iowa State Cyclones basketball team is set to embark on their Wasatch Mountain Swing, facing off against BYU on February 3 and Utah on February 6, 2024. This trip presents an opportunity for the team to strengthen their camaraderie while away from the usual pressures of campus life.
The Cyclones emphasize the importance of spending time together, with freshman Jamarion Batemon noting, “Just enjoying each other’s presence off the court makes it so much better on the court.” This sentiment highlights the team’s belief that their off-court relationships directly contribute to their on-court success.
The upcoming trip will see the Cyclones away from Iowa for an extended period, allowing them to bond without the usual distractions. T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State’s head coach, views this as a valuable chance for the team. “It’s a great opportunity,” he said, adding that the isolation will foster a deeper connection among players.
This season, the Cyclones have spent considerable time together, including a previous trip to the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. However, the timing of this Utah trip is particularly significant. The early to mid-February period is often regarded as a challenging phase in the college basketball season, where excitement wanes, and the anticipation of March Madness feels distant.
Being 1,000 miles away from home allows the team to leave behind the stresses associated with campus life. This getaway not only alleviates pressure but also provides a unique environment for team-building. “Our guys are in a really good place with each other,” Otzelberger explained. “You can watch a game together, you can go do an activity together, go have a meal.”
In previous years, the Cyclones often spent their time on the road confined to the hotel, but recent changes in their travel arrangements have made outings more frequent. Instead of catered meals in the hotel, the team now enjoys dining out, enhancing their bonding experiences. “If you can’t bond over dinner at a steakhouse on the athletic department’s dime, when could you?” noted Otzelberger.
Ultimately, this trip serves as a chance for the Cyclones to regroup and recommit to one another as they navigate the demands of their season. “We know how important being that together team, being that connected team on and off the court really is,” Otzelberger said.
As the Cyclones prepare for this essential part of their schedule, fans will be watching closely to see how this strengthened camaraderie translates into performance on the court.
