The third ranked Iowa State men returned to the practice floor after the Christmas break. The Cyclones have their final pre-conference tune up on Monday night when they host Houston Christian.

That’s Cyclone coach T.J. Otzelberger, who feels the time off was good for the players.

Otzelberger says while happy with their 12-0 start they know the challenges will get tougher with Big-12 play approaching.