Thad Matta Participates in Weekly Teleconference with Big Ten Media – Ohio State Buckeyes
1/7/2008 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Thad Matta, now in his fourth season at Ohio State, and the Buckeyes welcome Iowa to Value City Arena Wednesday (7 p.m./Big Ten Network). Ohio State is looking for a 3-0 start in league play for the first time since 1991 when the Buckeyes opened 7-0. Matta participated in a weekly teleconference with Big Ten media earlier today. Below are quotes about the Ohio State men’s basketball program and the upcoming matchup with Iowa.
Thad Matta Teleconference
Jan. 7, 2008
On senior guard Jamar Butler’s performance during the season
“Jamar has been very solid for us and Im excited for the way he is trying to take charge and run this basketball team. It is a good sign for our team how complete a player he is. He is one out of 13 (players) who have been through the rigors of all the minutes and for him to step to the forefront is good for our team.”
On Iowa head coach Todd Lickliter
“Todd and I go back far from when I was a young college player and working together at Butler as assistants. I’m not a fan of playing against my friends, but to have the opportunity to go and build that Iowa program is exciting for him and his family. You see Iowa getting better every time they take the court. They have the ability to play with great basketball teams and you will find he is one of the best coaches in the country. He has a tremendous game plan for everyone he plays.”
On having similar coaching styles
“I think we’ve changed a little in our coaching styles since Butler, but we still do have a lot of similarities.”
