Iowa State's Tamin Lipsey: Looking Up to Legends Tyrese Haliburton and T.J. McConnell

From Ames to the NBA: Tamin Lipsey's Journey

Growing up in Ames, Iowa, Tamin Lipsey was immersed in Iowa State culture long before he became a player for the Cyclones. His journey has been shaped by local legends, particularly Tyrese Haliburton and T.J. McConnell, who have left indelible marks on the Cyclones' legacy and the broader NBA.

Haliburton: A Constant Inspiration

Tamin Lipsey's admiration for Haliburton goes back to his teenage years. The two-time NBA All-Star has not only excelled at the professional level but has also maintained close ties to Iowa State. His presence and willingness to mentor young players have made a lasting impression.

“I wish he was here so I could talk to him, but I heard he's on his bachelor trip or something,” Lipsey remarked, reflecting on Haliburton's absence during his recent draft workout.

Haliburton's own story resonates with Lipsey. Once viewed as a skinny mid-major recruit, Haliburton transformed into a lottery pick in just two years at Iowa State. His rise to stardom is a powerful motivator for Lipsey as he approaches life as a professional athlete.

Mentorship and Motivation

According to Lipsey, the advice he gained from Haliburton will prove useful as he embarks on his own career. “Him and (forward) Georges Niang come back all the time. They're great for the Ames community,” Lipsey said. Their commitment to the program underscores the importance of community and character. “To still show that love back to Iowa State shows their character and their love.”

Finding His Own Path

While Lipsey seeks to learn from Haliburton, he also recognizes the differences in their game. List at 6 foot 1 and 200 pounds, Lipsey is shorter and sturdier than Haliburton, whose 6-5 frame and exceptional shooting ability have made him a difficult player to emulate. “I'm not quite the shooter or the creator that Haliburton is,” Lipsey admitted, showcasing his self-awareness.

Instead, he's carved out a niche as a defensive stalwart. Averaging 2.0 steals per game throughout his college career, Lipsey has made his mark as an excellent pressure defender, earning multiple selections to the All-Big 12 defensive team. His style reflects not just his physical attributes but also his competitive spirit.

A New Role Model: T.J. McConnell

As he fine-tunes his approach, Lipsey has looked to another player for inspiration: T.J. McConnell of the Pacers. With a similar stature and a passion for defense, McConnell exemplifies the role Lipsey seeks to embody in the league.

“I love playing defense, love creating havoc... T.J. McConnell is one of those guys who has found a role in the league, who does that to the highest level,” Lipsey explained. His goal is clear: to bring that same relentless energy and dedication to his game.

Statistical Insight

Throughout his college tenure, Lipsey has balanced scoring with serving as a playmaker. He averaged 11.0 points per game and an impressive 5.1 assists to just 1.5 turnovers as a senior—a testament to his ability to thrive in various roles on the court.

A Bright Future Ahead

“You can insert me into anything and I'll bring a positive energy no matter what my role is,” Lipsey said, showcasing his versatility and team-oriented mindset. As he stands on the brink of becoming a professional, his commitment to hard work and development is evident.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Support

The admiration and respect he holds for Haliburton and McConnell are more than just aspirations; they are a blueprint for the kind of player—and person—Lipsey aims to be in the NBA. As he navigates the draft process, one thing is clear: Tamin Lipsey is ready to make his mark.