The Iowa State Cyclones softball program is preparing for its 2026 season, facing projections of a seventh-place finish in the Big 12 Conference, as determined by the coaches' preseason rankings. Despite this mid-tier placement, a significant highlight for the team is the inclusion of standout player Jessie Clemons on the Preseason All-Big 12 Team, underscoring her importance to the squad. The team is set to open its competitive schedule on February 6 with a game against Omaha, signaling the beginning of what promises to be an engaging season.
Anticipations for the Big 12 Softball Season
The Big 12 Conference's preseason coaches' poll has positioned the Iowa State Cyclones softball team at seventh for the upcoming 2026 season. This forecast places them in the middle of the pack, with Texas Tech leading the predictions, securing ten first-place votes and 100 points, followed by Oklahoma State. The rankings suggest a competitive landscape within the conference, as teams like Arizona, Arizona State, and UCF also garnered significant points. Iowa State's placement reflects expectations of a challenging but potentially rewarding season as they aim to exceed these initial projections.
The preseason poll, a barometer for the conference's competitive outlook, saw Texas Tech emerge as the top contender, amassing 100 points and a majority of first-place votes, signaling strong confidence in their program. Oklahoma State secured the second spot with 87 points, while Arizona and Arizona State tied for third with 77 points each. UCF followed with 63 points, and BYU rounded out the top six with 55 points. Iowa State's 44 points positioned them just ahead of Baylor, who earned 42 points. The bottom of the poll included Kansas, Utah, and Houston, indicating a tiered structure of competitiveness within the Big 12 for the 2026 softball season. These early predictions set the stage for rivalries and unexpected outcomes as the season unfolds.
Jessie Clemons: A Rising Star's Preseason Recognition
Jessie Clemons, a native of Bettendorf, has received well-deserved recognition by being named to the Preseason All-Big 12 Team, an honor that highlights her exceptional talent and potential for the upcoming season. This accolade follows an impressive freshman year in 2025 where she distinguished herself as a unanimous All-Big 12 First Team member. Clemons's remarkable performance across multiple statistical categories last season firmly establishes her as a crucial asset for the Cyclones, and her consistent excellence positions her as a leader on the field.
During her impactful freshman year, Clemons showcased her versatility and offensive prowess, leading the Iowa State team in several key statistical metrics. She posted an impressive batting average of .367, accumulated 65 hits, and recorded 13 doubles, demonstrating her ability to consistently make contact and drive the ball. Furthermore, Clemons led the team with 36 runs batted in (RBI) and totaled 95 bases, underscoring her significant contribution to the team's scoring efforts. Her adaptability was also evident in her defensive assignments, as she played various positions including first base, second base, shortstop, center field, and right field, along with duties as a designated player. Clemons's consistent inclusion in the Preseason All-Big 12 team continues a trend for the Cyclones, following previous honorees Milaysia Ochoa and Angelina Allen, highlighting a growing tradition of individual excellence within the program.