INSIDER: Updates on must-have 2018 prospects and more

Lost in the excitement of a season opening 42-24 football win over UNI, the Iowa State basketball program had a busy weekend as well on the recruiting trail.

Two 2018 prospects – power forward George Conditt and point guard Tyler Harris made – made their way to Ames for officials visits.

While neither prospect committed on his trip, Iowa State appears to be in good shape with both.

Starting with Conditt, the 6-foot-8 legacy recruit out of Chicago,  is the sixth-ranked prospect in the state of Illinois according to 247. He currently has an official set up to Illinois on the 16th of September and it sounds like New Mexico will be a minor player as well.

The fact that his father, George Conditt Sr., played football at Iowa State in the 90’s, certainly gives Iowa State a leg up on the competition.

Look for Conditt to make a decision shortly after that Illinois visit in a few weeks.

As for Harris, Iowa State has been the perceived leader for this three-star point guard out of Memphis for quite some time. According to a source, Ole Miss and Wichita are no longer in the mix, which is very encouraging news for Iowa State’s chances. Harris will visit Colorado State next weekend and possibly Cincinnati after that.

Iowa State’s big connection here is the fact that Harris’ longtime basketball mentor is NBA guard Cameron Payne, who played for Steve Prohm at Murray State.

COMING UP

— Next Sunday/Monday will be busy for the staff as far as in-home visits are concerned. As of now, the plan is to see both Conditt and Talen Horton-Tucker next Sunday. The following day, Iowa State will pay Zion Griffin a home visit.

— Speaking of Zion Griffin, the Illinois small forward will be officially visiting Iowa State next weekend. It sounds like this will come down to Iowa State and Kansas, even though Pitt is scheduled to get an official on Sept. 15.