AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State lost four of its top six scorers from last season and was still picked to finish fourth in the Big 12. It looks like the rest of the league is through doubting Fred Hoiberg and the Cyclones. Despite yet another major overhaul of its roster, Iowa State is expected to compete for its third straight NCAA tournament berth in 2013-14.

The Cyclones bring back senior forward Melvin Ejim, a preseason first-team All-Big 12 selection, and emerging sophomore Georges Niang. Transfer DeAndre Kane will take over at point guard after averaging 15 points a game last season at Marshall, and guards Monte Morris and Matt Thomas should contribute immediately as freshmen.