What if White Stayed?

Every basketball fan in the state of Iowa knew this was coming. Royce White had too much talent not to pass up the offer to the NBA. He has all the upside in the world to work with. However, what if he would have stayed?

Iowa State exceeded many expectations this year by defeating the defending national champion in the first round, and for that matter, even making it to the first round. Fans and pundits alike believed this year was going to either be a year with many leaps and bounds or one which was going to have more downfalls. Lucky for all, Iowa State put themselves right back on near the top of the basketball world.

White was a huge contributor to that. He was the only player in the nation (in Division I) to lead his team in points, rebounds, blocks, steals and assists. It seemed like this guy did it all. While that may bot be completely true, what is true is that if White were still in Minnesota, the Cyclones would not have gotten as far, and wouldn't have come close to winning those big games that led ISU to the NCAA Tournament.

White made the right decision in leaving Ames for bigger aspirations. If he had waited around, there were many risks -- most dominantly to prevent injury. White is slated to be a late pick in the "lottery" round where he can contribute with almost any uniform he puts on. If he can develop a high post game and enhance his mid-range jumper, White will be a force to be reckoned with in the Big Show.

However, what if White had stayed in Ames for one more go-round?

Iowa State would have the firepower to make a long run to the Sweet 16 or even Elite Eight and would have new guys in Kenny Luscious coming in to help things out. Iowa State would instantly become one of the favorites to challenge Kansas for the Big 12 title and would join the class with Baylor and Missouri as top in the Big 12.

Nonetheless, White is off to the NBA and Iowa State will be just fine. The stake has been placed once again. The Cyclones are once again the leader of college basketball of the Hawkeye State. Even though that's a small accomplishment, there's plenty more to come for ISU.

Simpson Storm Coaches Show with Ben Blake

Here is the latest edition of the Simpson Storm Coaches Show featuring Head Baseball Coach Ben Blake: