Iowa State Basketball Recruiting: Commits Staying After T.J. Otzelberger’s Departure

Matt Thomas being introduced at a basketball game. Photo from Thomas’ Twitter account (@Theiceman_21)

Even though the associate head coach of the Iowa State men’s basketball team is going, it’s not altering the commitment status of two top recruits for the Cyclones.

Travis Hines of the Ames Tribune reported on Tuesday that both Matt Thomas in the class of 2013 and Clayton Custer in the class of 2014 told the newspaper that they were staying. T.J. Otzelberger played a big role in recruiting both players, but both confirmed their support to the team and head coach Fred Hoiberg.

Some notable quotes by both prospects from the article:

"“(Otzelberger) was a big factor in me coming to Iowa State so it’s tough,” said Thomas, who signed a National Letter of Intent last November, “but I understand why he’s doing what he’s doing.”“Everyone has their goals in life,” [Custer said,] “and if that’s what he felt like was best for him, he should do it.”[Custer also added,] “He’ll still be a part of my life I think, even though he’ll be somewhere else.”"

For those not familiar with either recruit, Thomas is similar to Scott Christopherson. Thomas has watched the 3-point specialist and has emulated his game. He’s currently ranked 69th overall in 247Sports’ Top 247 list.

Custer is a point guard that’s currently ranked as one of the highest in the state Kansas and 109th overall nationally on 247Sports.