From Auckland Grammar to Iowa State: The Rise of Jackson Kiss
For New Zealand basketball prospect Jackson Kiss, the journey from Auckland’s school courts to the bright lights of American college basketball has been nothing short of remarkable. The 17-year-old, who once dominated secondary school competition at Auckland Grammar and represented New Zealand at the FIBA Under-17 World Cup, has now committed to Iowa State University, joining the Cyclones as part of their 2026 recruiting class.
Ranked No. 99 nationally, the 6-foot-8 forward has drawn growing attention for his versatile game and rapid development. Kiss, now playing out of Hurricane (Utah) Utah Prep, surprised many observers with his decision to choose Iowa State over Hofstra, New Mexico and Saint Mary’s. Despite not visiting the Ames campus, he said the decision came after deep reflection with those closest to him.
“I had talks with my family and supporting staff and felt it was the best option for me,” Kiss told 247Sports. “Coach TJ [Otzelberger] is an amazing coach who I feel will develop my game the best and give me an opportunity.”
Kiss becomes the third commitment in Iowa State’s 2026 class, joining four-star recruit Christian Wiggins and three-star Yusef Gray Jr. The class is now ranked No. 15 overall in the United States, a reflection of the Cyclones’ growing profile under Otzelberger’s leadership.
For Kiss, the move represents both ambition and opportunity. “I plan on bringing my best to the programme,” he said. “Someone who is going to work hard but also learn as much as I can. I will put my all into this next chapter, and the goal is to always win, so that’s what we’re going to do at Iowa State next year.”
His rise to prominence began quietly. While he had long been viewed as a promising talent in New Zealand, known for his size, touch and defensive presence, it was on the Nike EYBL circuit with Vegas Elite that his stock soared. At the prestigious Peach Jam, Kiss averaged 14.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, two assists, 1.4 blocks and a steal per game while shooting an impressive 65.3 per cent from the field. His ability to score both inside and out, combined with his court awareness and defensive instincts, drew the attention of major collegiate scouts.
For many in the Pacific, Kiss’s story carries deeper meaning. His mother, Jean Riechelmann, is a proud Tongan, and his uncle, Charles Riechelmann, was among the first Tongan-born players to wear the All Blacks jersey, helping pave the way for future Pacific representation in New Zealand rugby. The sporting pedigree runs deep in the family, blending Tongan pride with New Zealand sporting excellence. That heritage, together with Kiss’s growing reputation on the basketball court, symbolises a new generation of Pacific athletes breaking barriers in global sport.
From Auckland Grammar’s gym to Utah Prep and now the Big 12 Conference, Jackson Kiss’s rise reflects both discipline and destiny. For a young man with Tongan roots and a Kiwi upbringing, the next chapter unfolds in Iowa, where he will look to turn potential into performance and carry the pride of the Pacific onto basketball’s grand stage.
