Iowa State coach Greg McDermott says his players need a pat on the back and not a kick in the tail. A season that started with high expectations has seen the Cyclones post a 2-10 record in the Big 12 and they have no slipped below 500 overall at 13-14 after a loss at home to Texas A@M.

McDermott says they’ve made it a point to be as upbeat as possible, while still teaching the players. McDermott says the coaches are finding ways to keep the Cyclones encouraged. He says it is frustrating for him, and it has to be tougher for kids who are 18 and 20.

 

Iowa State hosts Nebraska on Wednesday night.