Abdel Nader has been called the X factor of this year’s ISU men’s basketball team, but the senior considered leaving Iowa State this summer after the departure of former ISU coach Fred Hoiberg.

“Initially, it was just whether [Nader] was going to stay or not to be honest,” said new ISU coach Steve Prohm, who had multiple meetings with Nader after being hired so the two could feel each other out. “We talked, and after the first couple of weeks [after] I was here, he said he was all in, and he’s been great since.”

That appears to have been a good decision for both Nader and Iowa State. Through two games, Nader is averaging 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Of his 31 points this season, 24 have come in the second half of games.

“He’s really our X factor,” said Georges Niang. “Teams know about most of our guys, and [Nader] is like that hidden gem. We’ve known about him for a long time.”

Nader has an increased role this season, stepping into the main rotation of big men that includes Georges Niang and Jameel McKay. Nader has also stepped into a starting role with increased responsibilities this season. So far, he’s been able to deliver.

Nader’s name has been called more often as a senior, as Prohm has run sets to get Nader the ball in good position on the block. His offensive numbers are strong, but his biggest impact might eventually be felt on the other side of the ball.

“He rebounds, scores, defends, and I think the biggest thing with him is that he just wants to be the best defender we have on this team,” Niang said.

The Cyclones lost forward Dustin Hogue to graduation, but Nader has filled that slot nicely, allowing Iowa State to play big when needed. Nader brings a physical presence that will help Iowa State against the bigger Big 12 opponents.

The 6-foot-6-inch forward can play both the three and four spot, which, combined with the versatility of Niang, allows the team to get creative with how it plays its bigs.

“We need him to keep playing the way he has, and we expect him to keep playing the way he has,” McKay said. “It’s really important for our success as a team this year.”

Nader dropped 18 pounds in the offseason, but perhaps even more important than getting his body right was getting his mindset right. Nader said he’s having more fun playing basketball this season in his expanded role, and, judging by his early season performances, it shows.

“When you play a little more, obviously it’s more fun,” Nader said. “I’ve built such a big relationship with these guys over the past couple years, so finally being able to be out there with them and being just as important, it just feels great.”