ISU vs. Texas: Big man still plenty big

AMES - Aside from having to game plan for him, count Greg McDermott among those thrilled to see the player Texas big man Dexter Pittman has become.

Iowa State's head coach has had a courtside seat during Pittman's improbable career that's seen the Longhorn senior go from 388-pound project to possible first-round NBA Draft pick.

McDermott gets his last look at Pittman tonight when No. 1-ranked Texas (15-0, 1-0 Big 12) visits Hilton Coliseum.

The 6-10 Pittman now weighs 290 pounds and is the team's second-leading scorer (13.9) and rebounder (6.7). His body fat has gone from 41.6 percent to 13.5.

“He has changed so much,” McDermott said. “Anybody who saw him three years ago would have never projected that he would be the player that he is today.”

Letters and e-mails from fans voicing their support and amazement at Pittman's weight loss continue to flood his inbox. His story is inspirational for many.

Pittman played little his first two seasons. He started 24 games as a junior, averaging 10.0 points and 5.5 rebounds. He's been a star this season and will be a difficult match-up for ISU's big men.

As Pittman's weight has gone down, his all-around skills have improved.

“He has always had great hands,” McDermott said. “But now his technique down low, his footwork, what he is able to do defensively has grown so much. He has totally transformed his body from somebody who was never going to be able to play college basketball to somebody who will have a long career in the NBA.”

Justin Hamilton will draw the defensive assignment on Pittman, who leads the nation in field-goal shooting at 73.3 percent.

Craig Brackins and LaRon Dendy figure to get a shot at him. Hamilton, who sat out Saturday's win over North Dakota State because of a concussion, is the team's heaviest player at 255 pounds.

“I just have to be in the right spot and get low and be as strong as possible,” said Hamilton, who guarded Pittman some a year ago in a 75-67 Texas win in Austin. “He's improved a lot and now he's using both hands. It'll be a tougher challenge.”

Pittman isn't the only defensive concern for the Cyclones.

Senior forward Damion James is averaging a double-double (16.9 points, 11.0 rebounds) and having the best season of his career. Marquis Gilstrap will be matched up with the senior.

“I like it. That's why I play,” Gilstrap said. “I'd rather play against Texas than North Dakota state any day.”