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The best reserve in the country might be a starter for the NCAA Tournament. Iowa State's Curtis Jones wouldn't necessarily consider it a promotion. Jones is the leading scorer in the nation among players who primarily come off the bench. It's a role he embraces. With the loss of Keshon Gilbert to injury, Jones couldl start for the second straight game when the Cyclones open the tournament against Lipscomb in Milwaukee on Friday. Another option would be Nate Heise. While most players strive to be a starter, Jones is content with his bench role.
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Iowa State's Curtis Jones (5) shoots over Brigham Young's Trevin Knell (21) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinal round of the Big 12 Conference tournament, Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. - AP Photo/Charlie Riedel