The fourth ranked Iowa State men host Iowa in the 79th meeting in the series Thursday night. The Cyclones are 9-0 and will be in search of their third straight win over the Hawkeyes.

That’s ISU coach T.J. Otzelberger. The Hawkeyes are 8-1 under first year coach Ben McCollum.

Otzelberger says one of the biggest strengths of Hawkeye point guard Bennett Sturtz is his decision making.

Otzelberger on what has made Iowa a good defensive team.

McCollum says the Cyclones have been impressive.

McCollum says the Cyclone’s balance will make them difficult to guard.

McCollum says a key to playing well on the road in front of a raucous crowd is the ability to communicate.

McCollum says the Hawkeyes will need to counter ISU’s disruptive defense. The Hawkeyes struggled with that a week ago in a lopsided loss at Michigan State.

Iowa leads the all-time series 48-30.