Greg McDermott: A Coaching Career Built on Adaptability and Resilience

Greg McDermott’s name stands out in college basketball for his consistency and adaptability. Over three decades, he has navigated the challenges of coaching at multiple programs, each stop shaping his reputation as a program builder. His journey reflects the demands of the profession—high stakes, relentless pressure, and the need for continuous evolution.

McDermott’s career spans stints at Iowa State, Creighton, and most recently, returning to Iowa State. His ability to rebuild programs and maintain competitiveness has made him a respected figure in the sport. Beyond wins and losses, his legacy is defined by his approach to player development and his strategic adjustments year after year.

The Early Years: Foundations in Coaching

Greg McDermott’s coaching career began in the early 1990s, shortly after he graduated from the University of Northern Iowa. His first role as an assistant coach at his alma mater provided him with a deep understanding of the fundamentals of the game. This foundation proved crucial as he transitioned into his first head coaching position at Northwestern College in Iowa, a small NAIA program.

At Northwestern, McDermott spent four seasons honing his leadership skills while navigating the challenges of coaching at the NAIA level. His teams showed steady improvement, laying the groundwork for his future opportunities. By 1998, he had caught the attention of NCAA Division I programs, earning an assistant coaching role at the University of Missouri under legendary coach Quin Snyder.

Working under Snyder provided McDermott with invaluable experience in high-major college basketball. He learned the intricacies of recruiting, game management, and program culture—lessons that would later define his own coaching philosophy. His time at Missouri also allowed him to build relationships with coaches and administrators across the sport, a network that would prove instrumental in his career.

Iowa State: The First Big Test

In 2006, McDermott was named the head coach at Iowa State, a program that had struggled to find consistency in the post-Big 12 expansion era. Inheriting a roster with limited talent and a fanbase eager for success, he faced an uphill battle from the start. His first season was challenging, as the Cyclones finished with a 13-17 record, but it set the stage for his rebuilding efforts.

McDermott’s approach at Iowa State emphasized player development and discipline. He prioritized recruiting athletes who fit his system, focusing on three-point shooting and defensive intensity. Over time, his strategies began to yield results. By the 2008-09 season, Iowa State posted a 15-16 record, showing signs of progress. However, the program’s breakthrough came in the 2011-12 season, when the Cyclones earned a bid to the NCAA Tournament for the first time under his leadership.

The 2012 NCAA Tournament appearance marked a turning point for McDermott and Iowa State. His team, led by future NBA players like Royce White and Melvin Ejim, defeated a highly ranked Connecticut team in the second round. Though Iowa State fell to Kentucky in the next round, the run energized the program and solidified McDermott’s reputation as a coach who could compete in a power conference.

The Creighton Era: A Period of Sustained Success

After six seasons at Iowa State, McDermott made a surprising move to Creighton in 2014. The Bluejays, fresh off a Sweet 16 appearance and playing in the competitive Big East Conference, represented a significant step up in competition. McDermott’s tenure at Creighton would become the most successful stretch of his career, showcasing his ability to maximize talent and compete at a high level.

Under McDermott, Creighton became known for its offensive firepower, led by NBA prospects like Doug McDermott (his son) and Marcus Foster. The Bluejays consistently ranked among the nation’s leaders in scoring, thanks to McDermott’s emphasis on spacing and ball movement. His teams regularly finished in the top half of the Big East standings, with three NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure.

• 2015-16 Season: Creighton finished 20-15 overall and 10-8 in the Big East, reaching the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 64.
• 2016-17 Season: The Bluejays went 24-9 and won a share of the Big East regular-season title, earning a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
• 2019-20 Season: Despite a slow start, Creighton finished 24-7 and reached the Big East Tournament semifinals before the COVID-19 pandemic cut the season short.

McDermott’s time at Creighton also highlighted his ability to adapt to changing circumstances. When the program moved from the Missouri Valley Conference to the Big East in 2013, he quickly adjusted his recruiting and style of play to compete in a more physical and talented league. His success in the Big East further cemented his status as one of the conference’s most respected coaches.

The Return to Iowa State: A New Challenge

In 2020, McDermott returned to Iowa State, replacing Steve Prohm as the head coach. The move was met with optimism, as McDermott brought a proven track record of player development and program-building. However, his second stint at Iowa State has presented its own set of challenges, including roster turnover and the competitive pressures of the Big 12 Conference.

McDermott’s second tenure has been marked by both progress and setbacks. His teams have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in offensive execution, but have struggled with consistency. The 2022-23 season saw Iowa State finish 16-16 overall and 8-12 in the Big 12, failing to qualify for the NCAA Tournament. This result underscored the difficulties of competing in a league as deep as the Big 12, where programs like Kansas, Texas, and TCU consistently field elite rosters.

Despite the challenges, McDermott has remained committed to his long-term vision for the program. His focus on developing young talent and instilling a culture of accountability has resonated with Iowa State’s administration. The 2023-24 season will be a critical test of his ability to rebuild the Cyclones into a contender, particularly with a roster that includes emerging stars like Tamin Lipsey and Gabe Kalscheur.

Coaching Philosophy and Legacy

Greg McDermott’s coaching philosophy is rooted in adaptability. He has shown an ability to tailor his strategies to the strengths of his roster, whether it’s emphasizing three-point shooting, defensive intensity, or player development. His teams are often defined by their discipline, execution, and resilience in close games.

One of McDermott’s defining traits is his commitment to developing players for the next level. He has sent multiple players to the NBA, including his son Doug McDermott, who became a first-round draft pick in 2014. His emphasis on fundamentals and basketball IQ has made his players attractive to professional scouts, further enhancing his reputation as a developer of talent.

Off the court, McDermott is known for his professionalism and his ability to navigate the pressures of college basketball. He has maintained a strong relationship with his players, often emphasizing the importance of education and personal growth alongside athletic success. This approach has earned him respect from both his peers and the communities he has coached in.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Greg McDermott?

As Greg McDermott enters his fourth season back at Iowa State, the expectations are clear: compete for a Big 12 title and return to the NCAA Tournament. The Cyclones’ roster features a mix of experienced veterans and promising young players, providing McDermott with the tools to make a run at relevance in the conference.

McDermott’s future in coaching will likely depend on his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of college basketball. With the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) rules reshaping rosters, coaches must be more flexible than ever. McDermott’s track record suggests he is up for the challenge, but the stakes have never been higher.

Regardless of the outcomes, McDermott’s legacy is already secure. He has proven himself as a coach who can build programs, develop talent, and compete at the highest levels. His journey reflects the realities of college basketball—where success is measured not just in wins and losses, but in the impact a coach has on players and communities.

For fans of college sports, McDermott’s career offers a compelling narrative of perseverance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether he remains at Iowa State or moves on to another program, his contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come.