From the second Gilbert got to Iowa State, it was clear to him that he made the right choice. Stepping out on the Hilton court for the first time was surreal.

“It felt like magic. I ain’t gonna lie,” Gilbert said.

Although Gilbert has had impactful nights on the regular, especially during Big 12 play, the magic was felt the most before the annual Cy-Hawk game. 

Two hours before the game, the student section was already filled. When Gilbert walked out to warm up, he saw the crowd and heard the cheers, and he thought to himself, “This is it. This is where I’m supposed to be.”

The Cy-Hawk game was one of Gilbert’s best games of the season. His 25 points and consistent daggers propelled Iowa State to a comfortable win.

His most notable moment in that game was when he turned into a one-man show. In a matter of seconds, he knocked down a tough layup, saw Tamin Lipsey steal the inbound and set himself up to hit a deep three to get Hilton on its feet.

Gilbert bounced down the court, taunting the Hawkeyes into calling a timeout. They did.

His energy flowed into the crowd and made the night special for him. As Gilbert sat in the post-game press conference, he was at a loss for words. All he could say was:

“I’m so happy right now, I ain’t gonna fake it,” Gilbert said.

I can’t lie im having fun! ❤️

— Ke 🖤… (@kg2times) February 10, 2024

Although Gilbert was too excited to cobble together answers, he had teammates to speak for him. Robert Jones said that the consistent effort of Gilbert was what pushed the Cyclones over the Hawkeyes.

“That’s when you know you gotta step on the other team’s throats—bring that same high level of basketball play,” Jones said. 

As Jones rattled off an answer for Gilbert, Gilbert joked to Tre King about Jones’ well-crafted answers. Jones could easily come up with the words that Gilbert couldn’t. 

The three chuckled about Gilbert’s amazement before moving on to the next question. That one would draw the biggest laugh of the three.

When asked how it felt to take down Iowa State’s biggest rival in his final year with the team, Jones said, “It’s delightful.”

As Jones uttered those words, Gilbert could not contain his laughter. After chuckling for a few seconds, he leaned behind Jones to get King’s attention. 

“He said delightful,” Gilbert joked to King while the three laughed about it.

Gilbert smiled at Jones after the press conference and said, “I don’t know how you do that.”

Although Gilbert could not put his feelings into words at the time, he didn’t have to. One thing was for sure: Gilbert was having fun. 

Appreciate you cyclone nation! ❤️💛

— Ke 🖤… (@kg2times) January 27, 2024

He finally found a home, and he found another family to push him to achieve his goals.