Photo via Amare Bynum
Iowa State has made a strong early impression on one of its priority targets in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
Omaha Bryan forward Amare Bynum landed a scholarship offer from T.J. Otzelberger’s program on Wednesday during an unofficial visit to the school. Bynum’s father, Omar, played for Iowa State in the early-2000s, which made the offer a little sweeter.
“It was nice because my dad went there,” Bynum told Cyclone Fanatic on Thursday. “It was crazy that I got an offer from Iowa State, too.”
Bynum, a 6-foot-6 forward regarded as one of the best players in Nebraska’s 2025 class, had the opportunity to watch the Cyclones go through their off-season workouts.
“It was nice,” Bynum said. “I liked the atmosphere and energy they gave to each other. When one of their teammates hit the floor, they ran to pick them up.”
The visit to Ames also gave him the opportunity to connect with Otzelberger and the rest of Iowa State’s staff.
“I really like Coach TJ,” Bynum said. “He’s awesome. He’s a very talkative guy. He gives off great energy. He’s a great person to have a conversation with if you ask a question or anything.”
Bynum, who plays grassroots ball for MoKan Elite on the EYBL circuit, the same program which produced Iowa State freshmen Omaha Biliew and Kayden Fish, said he doesn’t have any other visits planned for the summer at this point.
There is no doubt Iowa State will be keeping tabs on him as the 2025 recruiting process starts to ramp up over the next few months.
“Just try to finish AAU for the summer and see what’s next,” Bynum said.
He sees himself as a player who brings a lot to the table for whichever college program he ends up choosing.
“I would say I’m an all-around player who can do it all,” Bynum said. “I’ll give you leadership and being very vocal on the court.”
