Cyclone Notebook: McDermott & Rhoads Meet the Media

Paul Rhoads and Greg McDermott both met with members of the media earlier today. Here are some notes from their perspective press conferences.

Paul Rhoads

Iowa State will head to Missouri on Saturday. The Cyclones became bowl eligible with their 17-10 win over Colorado on Saturday. Rhoads told reporters that the team had an outstanding practice yesterday to get the Missouri week started.

Rhoads was immediately asked about going to a bowl game. He quickly pointed out Missouri’s strengths, specifically wide receiver Danario Alexander, and made it clear that the Cyclones are focused on one thing. That’s Missouri.

Rhoads pointed out that Missouri’s defensive strength is stopping the run. Rhoads anticipates Iowa State to try and pass a little more against the Tigers.

On a few injury notes, Fred Garrin is fine. He practiced at full speed yesterday. Rhoads also confirmed that running back Alexander Robinson is at full speed and close to 100 percent.

Greg McDermott

Iowa State will head to Drake on Tuesday evening for their first road game of the 2009 season.

It didn’t take long for reporters to ask about the health status of power forward LaRon Dendy.

“It’s too early to tell,” McDermott said about how long Dendy will be out. The basketball staff hopes to have Dendy back for the Chicago Invitational.

McDermott told reporters that his team will prepare for Drake as if Josh Young will be in the lineup.

McDermott commented on the signing of JUCO combo-guard DeMarcus Phillips.

“He was too talented not to take,” McDermott said.