Thompson Waits His Turn

AMES, Iowa- Having to sit out and watch your teammates enjoying the atmosphere of a game in Hilton Coliseum can be difficult for a player. That is what Alex Thompson is experiencing right now.

Thompson, a junior from Ames, is in his first year with the Cyclone program after transferring from the University of Iowa, where he played two seasons. Thompson can practice with the team, but has to sit out this season because of the NCAA transfer rule. For many players, the transition from contributing every game to sitting on the bench is extremely difficult. However, Thompson is taking it all in stride.

“It has been hard to sit out and certain days have been harder than others,” Thompson said. “As the season goes on it gets tougher, but at the same time you can see the end coming. It is a grind coming to practice every day and not being able to prepare yourself for a game.”

Thompson played the last two seasons at Iowa (2004-05, 2005-06) where he was a contributor on a pair of NCAA Tournament teams. He played in all 66 games of those two seasons, and his clutch 3-pointer late in the Ohio State game helped Iowa win the 2006 Big Ten Tournament title. Thompson, a former first-team all-state selection at Ames High School, chose to return home when Iowa State head coach Greg McDermott was hired in March of 2006.

“I am excited about the future of this program,” Thompson added. “I am just trying to help every one out this year while being on the scout team. I can hardly wait until next year when I can get a chance to play with these guys. Coming back to Ames has really helped out. I get to spend more time with my family and I have friends and family to hang out with when the team goes away on a road trip.”

McDermott knows the potential of Thompson and his ability on the basketball court. At 6-9, 230 pounds, he has the size to bang down low and the ability to stretch the defense with his outside shooting.

“Alex has done everything we have asked him to do,” McDermott said. “Many transfers come to practice and go through the motions. Alex has not done that. He has treated every practice like he was going to play the next game and given us unbelievable effort on the scout team. We as a staff are looking forward to seeing him in a Cyclone uniform next year.”

Players Mentioned

Alex Thompson

Alex Thompson

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