Coaches Corner: Greg McDermott

AMES, Iowa- Iowa State head men's basketball coach Greg McDermott is this week's subject on Coaches Corner. McDermott, who is entering his fourth year as the Cyclone mentor, sat down with cyclones.com to answer a few questions on his favorite topics.

What's on TV:
SportsCenter

What's on your iPod:
Jimmy Buffett, Garth Brooks, Doobie Brothers and Bob Seger.

In the 1983-84 UNI men's basketball media guide, you listed “The Shining” as your favorite movie. Are you still fond of it or are there any other movies at the top of your list?
I am still fond of it. "Hoosiers" is probably my all-time favorite. "Shawshank Redemption" is pretty good as well.

As a Cubs fan, do you think there is any chance you will see your team win it in your lifetime?
Absolutely.

As an avid golfer, what would be your dream foursome?
John Wooden, Julius Erving, Jack Nicklaus

Favorite dinner:
Meat and potatoes.

What is the best part of living in Ames:
The people.

What would you consider your greatest accomplishment as a basketball player?
My senior year at UNI (1987-88) we defeated a really good Louisiana State team.

Who were your coaching mentors?
Jim Berry, Eldon Miller and my high school coach (Cascade) Al Marshall

What was your reaction when Craig Brackins said he was coming back for his junior year?
I was very excited. At the same time I felt a great sense of pride with how Craig navigated himself through the process and came to a decision that, in the end, was in his best interest.

Your oldest son, Nick, was an All-State golfer and your younger son, Doug, is an All-State basketball player. You must be proud of their accomplishments:
I am very proud. Whether they had been all-state in anything would not change how proud I am. They have made good decisions and treat people right. Theresa and I are very proud.

First job:
Some people would argue that I have not worked a day in my life! Growing up on a farm you did everything. I remember bailing hay for my family and our neighbors and that was probably the first thing I was ever paid for.

Who were your sports idols growing up?
Fergie Jenkins in baseball, Franco Harris in football and Dr. J in basketball. I liked how they carried themselves and how they were proud of the teams they played for. They were my favorite players on my favorite teams (Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia 76ers).

Players Mentioned

Craig Brackins

Craig Brackins

Craig Brackins

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics