Although their jerseys will read “YMCA” or “Peak Performance Program,” the Capital City League in Des Moines will give

Cyclone players and fans their first opportunity to see what the

upcoming season will hold.

Ten ISU men’s basketball players,

including all six incoming players, will compete in the league, which runs from June 17 to July 12.

In its fifth year, the Capital City League has served as a warm-up for the top prep and college players in the Des Moines area.

Players from Drake University, Iowa Central Community College, Des Moines Area Community College and a number of area high schools will compete in this year’s league.

Troy Skinner, a Des Moines lawyer and University of Iowa

graduate,  said he created the league five years ago after he played in a similar league in Iowa City.

“It was a real benefit to the

players, so I thought bringing the same kind of league here would be helpful,” Skinner said.

Greg McDermott, head men’s basketball coach, has encouraged players to get involved with the league as a way to branch out, as well as an opportunity for fans to get an early glimpse of the team.

“It gives them an opportunity to play against someone other than your own team for the whole summer,” McDermott said.

Senior forward Jamie Vanderbeken is entering his second year in the league and said he believes it to be a valuable experience to help get in shape and mix up the schedule of what is otherwise a repetitive summer.

“The players are the best of the best in the area,” Vanderbeken said. “Everyone goes out to win.”

A draft system is used to place each player on a team.

Incoming guard Chris Colvin was third overall and the highest ISU player picked.

He was followed by Diante Garrett and Marquis Gilstrap at four and five.

The league’s rosters will give many Cyclone players a chance to build chemistry, whether it is with new teammates or old.

“It’s a great way for me and Diante to get to know Bubu [Palo] and see what kind of player he is,” Vanderbeken said.

Garrett, Vanderbeken and Palo will be competing for the Medical Oncology and Hematology Association.

Gilstrap and LaRon Dendy will play for YMCA.

Colvin, Antwon Oliver and Alex Dorr will play for Peak Performance Program.

Justin Hamilton and Charles Boozer will play for Granite Transformations.

All the games will be played at either Valley High School or Valley Southwoods. Admission is free to the public.