Recruiting ability, fit are key for new mbb assistants

AMES — Iowa State has two openings on its coaching staff. What is Greg McDermott looking for in filling those spots?

“Recruiting is always a priority,” the Cyclone coach said during an interview late last week.

With just six scholarship players and two walk-ons currently on campus, immediate recruiting help would be welcome. Realistically, McDermott is meaning down the road, starting with next year’s class.

What else?

An appreciation for the school and the community also is key, McDermott said.

“It has to be somebody who believes (Ames) is a fit for them, because it is not for everybody. That’s just the reality,” he said.

Resumes are pouring in, McDermott says. He’s done some interviews and hopes to make one or both hires official by the end of this week.

“I haven’t struggled to find people who are interested,” McDermott said. “There’s plenty of people who want to be here. It’s trying to find the right people.”

He and coaches T.J. Otzelberger and Jeff Rutter have spent the last few days looking for additions to this year’s recruiting class. Coaches are in an open recruiting period until Wednesday.

McDermott was boarding a plane headed for Wisconsin Friday afternoon. Rutter was traveling to Europe to visit prospects.

“The next (few) days are important for us as we continue to evaluate a few guys more in-depth,” McDermott said.

ISU has seen three players leave the program (Justin Hamilton, Dominique Buckley and Chris Colvin) since the season ended last month.

The late signing period began last week. One player — Oregon big man Jordan Railey — has signed so far. McDermott needs a few more to join up.

“We’ve had players visit and have more planned,” he said. “We are looking at a few (Division I) transfers as well.”

Tags: Chris Colvin, Cyclones, Dominique Buckley, Greg McDermott, Iowa State, Jeff Rutter, Jordan Railey, Justin Hamilton, T.J. Otzelberger