Jamarion Batemon Shares on Iowa State Basketball Future

"Definitely coming back," Batemon said via Alec Busse of Cyclone Alert, part of the 247Sports Network (subscription required). "The development, they're big on making sure you're getting back, and then, it's just a family-like culture. All the guys want to be around all the coaches, and it's a winning culture."

The highest-rated freshman in the Class of 2025, there was a lot of excitement surrounding Batemon when he began his career with the Cyclones. Many predicted that he would be in the starting lineup alongside Lipsey in the backcourt.

While that never materialized, as Killyan Toure was tabbed as a starter, Batemon’s role got bigger and bigger as the season moved along because the coaching staff’s confidence in him improved.

He showcased a willingness and ability to dig in defensively on the perimeter. His ability may not have been where Toure’s was as a lockdown, point of attack defender, but he more than made up for it with his offensive ability.

Batemon has the tools to help offset the scoring punch that will be lost with Lipsey, Jefferson and Heise moving on. If Momcilovic also departs, it would not be a stretch to say Batemon is the best 3-point shooter currently on the roster.

As a freshman, he appeared in all 37 games, averaging 15.6 minutes per contest. Encouragingly, his efficiency improved during Big 12 play, going up against tough competition night in and night out with a .422/.373/.867 shooting split.

Batemon is someone to keep an eye on as a breakout performer next season. His role and responsibility on the court are going to increase a ton, as he could be one of the main scoring options for Otzelberger’s offense.