Getting To Know Marquis Gilstrap

AMES, Iowa- Marquis Gilstrap (6-6, 210) hasn't taken your typical route to Division I basketball. After sitting out two seasons, the forward came out of nowhere to emerge as one of the best junior college players in the nation in his lone season at Gulf Coast Community College (Panama City, Fla.) in 2008-09.

The Covington, Ga., native is rated as the 26th-best player in the class of 2009 (high school and junior college players) by ESPN.com after averaging 22.6 points and 10.1 rebounds. He's now eager to show his skills at the next level after dominating junior college basketball.

“It felt good to have the season I did after missing two years of basketball,” Gilstrap said. “To come in and play the way I did was great. I was upset that we lost the conference championship game and missed out on the national tournament, but it was a great year. It helped a lot to play in a great conference (Panhandle Conference) that is like the Big 12 at the junior college level.”

An experienced Gilstrap will provide ISU with an athletic wing it so desperately needs to compete at a high level in the rugged Big 12.

Cyclones.com sat down with Gilstrap recently and asked him a few questions on various topics.

How excited are you to start your career at Iowa State?
I am definitely excited to be here.

How important is to arrive on campus this summer opposed to the fall?
It actually helps build team chemistry with us all here together. This is where it counts, working hard in the off-season.

What are Cyclone fans going to see out of Marquis Gilstrap next season?
I am going to give them 110% every night and play hard on offense and defense.

Favorite TV show
SportsCenter

What's on your iPod
Young Jeezy

Favorite dinner
Hot Wings

Favorite actor
Will Smith

Favorite movie
Glory Road

What was your reaction when you found out Craig Brackins was staying?
I was very excited. I have not had the chance to play with a player like Craig before.

What influence has former Cyclone great Kantrail Horton had on your life?
He helped me with my ball handling and shooting. He has helped me out a lot on and off the court. I grew up watching him, and when I got older, I started to play with him. When he sees a player who is good, he will help them out. I remember watching his games when he was at Iowa State.

Favorite Sports Idol
Michael Jordan

Players Mentioned

Craig Brackins

Craig Brackins

Craig Brackins

Marquis Gilstrap

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics