Iowa State’s Big Offseason Addition Already Out for the Year

Iowa State’s roster will soon be without one expected newcomer, as junior guard Mason Williams will likely miss the 2025–26 season following hip surgery, the program confirmed.

Williams, a 6-foot-5 guard from Seattle’s powerhouse O’Dea High School, joined Iowa State as a transfer from Eastern Washington with two years of eligibility remaining. He erupted during the 2024–25 season, starting 22 of 27 games for the Eagles and averaging a career-high 13.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. In the Big Sky, he was ninth in scoring and second in free throw percentage at an impressive 83.7%.

Despite his breakout campaign, Williams’ transfer buzz was overshadowed by an existing hip injury, one that Iowa State staff had been monitoring since at least April. That injury ultimately prompted the decision for surgery.

Following the procedure earlier this week, Williams is expected to be sidelined for all of 2025–26.

Iowa State is coming off a strong 2024–25 campaign under T.J. Otzelberger, finishing 27–8 overall and 13–5 in Big 12 play, earning a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament. The Cyclones advanced to the Sweet 16 for the second time in three years, once again leaning on elite defense and balanced scoring. With several key pieces departing, the offseason has been pivotal for retooling the backcourt and maintaining momentum heading into another competitive Big 12 season.