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A look at the upcoming season
2002-03 season
South Region teams
Christopher
Newport
Every year there is a hole to fill here, a question mark there, but one
thing remains constant in Christopher Newport basketball — the Captains
will once again have a very talented team, with the potential to be a
national power, heading into the 2002-03 season.
Coach C.J. Woollum
has lots of firepower on hand among both veterans and newcomers, and one
key question to be answered, who will be the point guard?
Albert Haskins, the latest in a long string of outstanding players at
that position, completed his career last season. It was a career that
spanned the second best four-year period in CNU history with a 95-17 record,
three NCAA appearances including a trip to the Elite 8, and what most
believed should have been a fourth NCAA invitation last year when the
Captains were 23-5.
The job of following in Haskins' footsteps is wide open, but the other four starting spots are manned by senior veterans backed up by talented youth.
Starting inside, the Captains can rely on Terry Gray at the 5. Gray had a breakout season in his junior year, earning first team All-Dixie Conference honors and ranking eighth in the nation in blocked shots with an average of 3.2 per game.
Gray is a multidimensional player who can score from inside as well as from three-point range. The 6-6 225-pound Norfolk, Va., native led the Captains in rebounding with 8.3 per game, as well as in blocked shots, but also was the team's second best 3-point shooter with a .411 mark on 39-for--95 shooting. That was good enough for seventh-best in the Dixie.
"Terry is well respected in the league and was a key player for us last year. He can be as good as he wants to be," notes Woollum.
A couple of newcomers will back up Gray. Junior Paul Michael (6-6, 250) has transferred from Division II Livingstone where he was the Bears' third leading scorer (11.6) and top rebounder (7.2) a year ago. "He's big and strong and a force inside," says Woollum.
A freshman will also figure in the mix inside. Michael Witham (6-7, 230) "is really just beginning his basketball career," says Woollum. He averaged 14 points and 11 rebounds at Greenbriar Academy in Chesapeake, Va., and "has all kinds of potential," according to Woollum. He won't be pressured to be a major contributor right away.
Tyrell Veney (6-4, 205) returns at the 4 after starting 21 of CNU's 28 games last season. But, as was the case a year ago, Veney may be a little behind his teammates, not being able to join the team until CNU's football season ends. He's a mainstay at defensive end for the Captains. He's a solid defensive player who will help offensively and with his veteran knowledge. The question is, will one of several others give Veney a real push at the start of the season?
Mitchell Moffatt (6-6, 190) returns for his sophomore season and, according to Woollum, "has improved greatly since last season." He could see time at either the 4 or 3.
Freshman Mark Hepner (6-7, 220) was a terrific catch for the recruiting class. The graduate of Central H.S. in Woodstock, Va., was a second team All-State selection and scored 10 points in the annual Virginia High School League (VHSL) East-West All-Star Game. "He has good size and basketball knowledge and will be important to us right away," says Woollum.
Transfer Otho Hampton
(6-7, 220) arrives from USC-Salkehatchie and the U.S. Army. Consequently
he has been away from structured basketball for quite a while, but Woollum
says he is a very skilled player who could handle the 4 or 3.
At the 3 the Captains can count on senior Carlos Heard (6-3, 200), in
Woollum's words "a tremendous player who's working hard to get even
better." Heard was a first team All-Dixie Conference choice as a
sophomore when he averaged 16.4 points. Last season he slipped to 13.4
but showed flashes of his old brilliance at the Dixie Conference Tournament
when he scored 30, 22 and 21 points in the three games, and was named
to the All-Tournament team. He was also the MVP in CNU's Captains Shootout
Championship.
Junior Marcus Carter
(6-6, 190) has improved in each of his first two seasons and Woollum is
looking to him to advance his game to the next level. "He's a great
young man. Now he needs to become the player we know he can be."
Senior Jermaine Woods had a fabulous year in 2001-02 and seems poised
for even better things. He was the leading scorer in the Dixie Conference
at 19.1 and pushed for Player of the Year honors. He was also a third
team All-South Region choice.
"Jermaine has all the qualities of a great 2 guard," says Woollum. "He's improved his ability to put the ball on the floor and go to the basket. His leadership is a major key."
Woods dropped in 32 points against Chowan and 30 in CNU's Dixie semifinal win over Shenandoah and hit a CNU-record 97 threes, leading the league with an average of 3.5 per game.
Sophomore Blake Brookman
(6-0, 180) could see action either at the 2 or at point. He was impressive
last season after joining the Captains in midyear, showing flashes of
a great 3-point touch and the ability to the run the club.
Freshman Jeremy Romeo (6-1, 170) will push for playing time. He was the
leading scorer in the Bay Rivers District last year with a 19 points per
game average for Tabb H.S. in Yorktown, Va. In addition, he placed second
in the region. He was a first team all-region choice once and first team
all-district twice.
At the point is where most of the competition will take place. Sophomore Lawrence Williams (5-11, 200) has the initial edge as he played 228 minutes at the position last season. Brookman will challenge along with two freshmen. Tim Collins (5-8, 150), was twice a second team All-Capital District player and drilled 66 three-pointers in his senior season at Atlee H.S. in Mechanicsville, Va. Adam Purdham (6-2, 200) from Spotswood H.S. in Shenandoah, Va., was a second team All-State and Shenandoah District Player of the Year.
"We're really pleased with the makeup, talent and attitude of this group," says Woollum. "We'll have to rely on the veterans to handle things early while the point guard situation sorts itself out, but once that happens we'll have a very good group."
As usual the Captains will face a rugged schedule. Of CNU's 13 potential non-conference opponents, nine had winning records a year ago, and then there is the always-challenging Dixie Conference race.
A year ago Christopher Newport felt it had been snubbed by the NCAA after not being chosen for the postseason field with a 23-5 record. That mark equaled the best of any school not invited. It broke a streak of nine consecutive NCAA appearances. This year the Captains are aiming to start a new streak.
Virginia
Wesleyan
When a program graduates a two-time all-conference first teamer and a
1,000-point scorer, some people might question if a rebuilding process
will follow, or if it's just a matter of reloading for a shot at continued
success.
That answer is only revealed with time on the court, where Virginia Wesleyan will attempt to overcome the loss of James Wallace, the program's all-time leader in 3-pointers made, and 1,000-point scorer Josh Fisher, a duo that combined for 1,880 points, 725 rebounds, and 519 assists in four years.
But, while the void is there, so are the experienced players and a highly-promising group of newcomers who could integrate talents to fill it more than adequately. Head men's basketball coach David Macedo will not only rely on seven seasoned lettermen, but he'll also utilize the skills of seven debuting players as the Marlins attempt to pick up where they left off last year. After being picked to finish fifth in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference's preseason poll, VWC emerged as the surprise team in the league by taking the runner-up finish with a 14-4 record ... the College's best showing in conference play.
"It will be tough to replace James and Josh," said Macedo. "It will take an excellent effort from the combination of our returning players who improved throughout last year and our new players developing quickly to get back to the level of success that we enjoyed last year. We certainly have the capability to be a very good basketball team though. That will be determined by how disciplined we can be offensively and defenisvely, and how rapidly our returnees and newcomers can mature."
Senior leadership was key in last year's effort, as the Marlins finished 16-10 overall. While VWC had two seniors on last year's team, they will work with four this season, led by a pair 6-6 man-movers inside, 225-pound Ryan Kahle and 248-pound Donnell Hammonds. Kahle, who came off the bench to spark the Marlins with his ability to score inside or from 3-point range, averaged 10.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game last year, and ranked No. 2 in the ODAC in blocking shots (1.42 pg). He led the team in 3-point shooting accuracy (.446). Hammonds, who could emerge as one of the strongest players physically in the ODAC, did most of his damage in close, where he averaged 5.3 points and 4.9 rebounds each outing.
Louis Park and Bill Gobble, a pair of 6-3 guards, round out the senior class and extend VWC's tradition of strong shooting guards. Both men connected on nearly 50% of their shots last year, with Park averaging 8.9 points a game and Gobble coming off the bench to average 4.5 an outing. Park hit for double-figure scoring in 13 games and hit a season-high 21 points at Emory & Henry. Gobble scored a season-best 13 points twice, at Newport News and in the Marlins' second victory of the season against 2002 ODAC-title favorite Hampden-Sydney.
Leadership is also expected from the junior class with forward David Doino and guard Justin Blazer. Doino looms as a force not to be overlooked by any VWC opponent. The 6-3, 210-pounder has started in 51 consecutive games for the Marlins, has pumped in 511 points, pulled down 360 rebounds, and has shot nearly 50% from the field. He ranked fifth among the ODAC's top rebounders last year and sixth in free throw accuracy (79.6%). Team captain this season, Doino is expected to play a dominant role in VWC's success. Blazer is among the leading prospects for the floor-general's responsibilities, along with first-year Marlin Marques Fitch.
Add to the mix 6-6 sophomore forward Peter Warren, the best pure shooter on the team, who gave Marlin fans glimpses of a definite ability to score and rebound in limited playing time. His talents are expected to get more recognition in the new season, as are the capabilities of the incoming class of players. The seven newbies hold an array of honors ranging from team captain and/or player-of-the-year last year, to all-district and all-regional honorees. They have the eye for the bucket as they players averaged from 7.2 points to 20.9 points per game for their respective high schools.
Virginia Wesleyan will play its first full season of competition in the $18.6 million Jane P. Batten Student Center, after playing nearly two seasons without a home court. Home hardwood has been kind to the Marlins, as they have compiled a 97-47 record at home in the past 13 seasons.
Chowan
For the last 22 seasons, people in the small town of Murfreesboro, N.C.,
have known Bob Burke as the head man of the Chowan men's basketball team.
After 22 seasons and 419 wins as the Chowan skipper, Burke traded in his head coaching duties for an assistant coaching position at the University of Hawaii for the 2002-03 campaign. That left the door wide open for first year man Jim Tribbett to take over the post at 'the program that Bob built'.
Tribbett is no stranger to Brave Country as he sat along side Burke as an assistant coach from 1990-1992. The 91-92 season, Tribbett's final year with Chowan, was the Braves' last trip to Hutchinson, Kan., to play in the JUCO Final Four.
Tribbett also has coached in the Dixie Conference, heading up the Greensboro program for four campaigns after leaving Murfreesboro in 1992. The Braves skipper commented on coaching in the Dixie adding, "Even though the coaches may not be the same, as when I coached at Greensboro, the gyms are still the same, the schools are the same, the quality of players is pretty much the same. I am looking forward to getting back into the Dixie and playing the N.C. Wesleyans and the Christopher Newports. I am looking forward, as is our team, to taking on the challenge of playing in the Dixie."
Despite the loss of last year's leading scorer, the Braves look to be a force in the Dixie in the 2002-03 campaign.
The Braves have six players returning from last year's squad that started at least eight games a year ago.
Leading the charge for Chowan will be seniors Dejuan Green (6-6; 230) and Steve Harler (6-1; 180) along with juniors Anthony Jones (6-0; 175), Rocky Ferrante (6-3; 185) and Roland Brown (6-3; 210).
Tribbett commented on his seniors saying, "Dejaun and Steve are both excellent leaders in their own way. Green (12.2 ppg and 5 rpg a year ago) is a player that must stay healthy for us. The team struggled last season when he was out due to injury. Dejaun is a player that can be a potential All-Conference performer. We have to get Dejaun a lot of shot opportunities."
Tribbett continued on Harler (5.8 ppg and 1.4 rpg in 2001-02) saying, "No one works harder than Steve. Steve is and excellent outside shooter and the kind of kid that cares and wants to win."
Three juniors that will also be looked upon are Jones (9.3 ppg and 96 assist a year ago), Ferrante (6.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg in 2001-02) and Brown (8.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg last year). Tribbett commented on his trio of juniors saying, " Jones will be a real key for us. I see him as a possible combination guard for us. I really like the idea of seeing him as a wing. That will allow him to do more for our team. He is fearless at attacking the basket. Rocky is a real crowd favorite. The lefty is in great shape and can pull the trigger at anytime. He is an excellent shooter. Roland is one of the best defensive players on this club. He has good work ethic and will help this team by doing the 'dirty work' He will be the one diving for the loose balls and scraping for rebounds."
One of the trademarks that Burke gave the men's basketball program is the tough schedule that the Braves play year in and year out. This 2002-03 campaign will be no different for Tribbett and his troops.
The skipper's comments on the tough road prior to entering league play Jan. 15 against the defending DIAC champions, N.C. Wesleyan, were simple. "We respect our opponents but we fear none. Chowan has shown in the last several years that we can play with nationally ranked programs."
The Braves could possible play five ODAC clubs in the non-conference schedule. Games against Randolph-Macon and at Guilford and Virginia Wesleyan as well as playing in Hampden-Sydney's tournament to open the 2002-03 campaign await the Braves. Tribbett added, "We have to use our non-conference schedule as a measuring stick. It will tell us what adjustments we need to make before getting into Dixie play." The Braves will also travel to Salisbury and to Marymount to compete in two other weekend tournaments before returning home to host the Chowan Shootout on Dec. 14-16.
Tribbett stated, "This team is close to achieving great success. Injuries plagued this program a year ago. Losing Green and Jones during last season hurt the team. With the quality players returning it's real encouraging. Our kids work as hard as anyone does in the conference. If we stay healthy throughout the season we will show that."
Mississippi
College
Few basketball programs can boast of the type success the Choctaws have
experienced over the past seven seasons in Division III. The Choctaws
have appeared in five consecutive NCAA tournaments, won three American
Southwest Conference championships, and averaged 22 wins a season. But
there are many new faces in the program this season giving hope to other
American Southwest Conference teams.
Former head coach Mike Jones retired after 14 seasons and 286 wins to take over full time athletic director responsibilities at Mississippi College. The Choctaws also must replace three starters including ASC East Division player of the year and All-ASC forward Karlos Fairley (14 ppg, 7 rpg) and All-ASC guard Stacey Keyes (14.9 pts, 4 rebs). Fairley was a second team All-South Region selection while Keyes finished fourth in school history in made three pointers after only two seasons. The two Jones Junior College transfers led the Choctaws to a 45-8 record the last two seasons including the ASC championship last season.
With so many new changes many would expect this to be the season to finally knock off the Choctaws, but the cupboard is hardly bare in Clinton, MS. Former assistant coach Don Lofton was the choice to take over as head coach after 18 seasons on the Choctaw coaching staff. Known as a top recruiter, he has already brought in several talented new players to go with a strong returning class that should keep the Choctaws among the nation's best.
"Our staff is pleased with the players we were able to add to the team and with the leadership of the veterans. But we have to develop chemistry quickly with so many new faces," coach Lofton says.
This season's team is not as big as last, but possesses more athleticism with more overall talent and depth spread out at each position. Returning to run the team is point guard Carey Crain (5-11) who started all but one game last year after transferring from the University of Mississippi. After a full season under his belt, he is more comfortable running the system and provides the team with a skilled ball handler who makes few mistakes.
"Carey is able to concentrate more on playing this year where last season he was thinking. The experience will only give him more confidence", Lofton says.
His backup last season, Justin Henley (6-0), has moved over to shooting guard after one of the best statistical shooting seasons in MC history. He led the ASC in 3-point shooting knocking down 43% of his attempts and set the school record for 3s in a game with eight. He was third on the team in scoring averaging (9.6 ppg) in a sixth man role. He can play both backcourt positions giving the team added versatility. Senior Lance Johnson (6-2) also returns at the 3 position providing steady play after drawing 16 starts last year and finishing fourth in rebounding (3.2 rpg).
Two transfers from Jones Junior College should provide immediate depth in the backcourt and will push for starting roles. Nick Paige (6-3) and Chris Keyes (6-3), both Mississippi junior college All-Stars, are extremely athletic guards with the ability to play on both ends of the court. Paige is the shooter after averaging over 20 points per game last season in the tough Mississippi Junior College league. Keyes is a bigger guard that rebounds (15 ppg, 7 rpg) and gets to the basket and who could become a defensive stopper for the Choctaws.
"Chris and Nick are both good players and have a chance to really help us this season but have to learn what we are doing", Lofton says. "But they are talented players who are both bright so they should have a quick learning curve."
The Choctaw frontcourt has been the most competitive position in early season workouts and appears to be as deep as it has been in several years. Leading the way is returning forward Tracy Phillips (6-5, 225). He is one of the most athletic players in the ASC and finishes around the basket as good as anyone.
"Tracy has prepared himself for a productive year. He did what he needed to do in the offseason and has gotten stronger physically", Lofton says. "I feel good about his play thus far."
Last season he had limited scoring opportunities (6.1 ppg, 4.0 rpg) playing behind the league's player of the year, but he shot 66% from the field and should thrive with more opportunities. After adding 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason, he could be ready for a breakout year.
Robert Green (6-4, 200) is another gifted athlete ready for a bigger role. He is in the same mold as Phillips, often undersized but uses quickness and great leaping ability to play much bigger. Green played in all 25 games last year averaging (4 ppg, 3 rpg) in a backup role.
Newcomers have created a lot of competition for the two post spots and are pushing returning players. B.J. Black (6-5, 230) is a very physical player who will add muscle to the frontcourt and scoring to the team. After averaging 15 points and seven rebounds at Co-Lin last year, the junior college All-Star should be an immediate help and possibly start for the Choctaws.
The same can be said of James Dixon (6-4, 210) who returns to the court after sitting out a season. Dixon fits right in with the rest of the Choctaw post players with quickness and athleticism. He was a solid scorer and rebounder in junior college and will contend for a starting spot.
"We have a lot of competition in the post this year," Lofton says. "We have big guys that can run the floor and we should be able to play several people in those positions keeping players fresh."
Last season the Choctaws won the ASC championship for the third time if five seasons and reached the NCAA tournament, but were beaten by No. 22 Lewis & Clark in the first round. Despite the loss of key players and a head coaching change, the team has not lost a beat. This season's team has its eyes on the ASC crown again and are motivated for another shot in the NCAA Tournament.
Hampden-Sydney
In 2002, Hampden-Sydney looks to continue to maintain the form that has
generated ten NCAA Tournament appearances, including six straight, and
eight Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championships. With five starters
and 13 lettermen returning from an ODAC Championship team, the Tigers'
arsenal is as potent as ever and the guns are loaded and ready for the
battle for the 2003 ODAC and NCAA Titles.
Head coach Tony Shaver is in his 17th season at the helm of the Tiger machine, which has churned out eight conference championships since 1989, including five in the last six years. In 2002-2003, Shaver's squad is veteran-laden and has the talent and poise to make yet another March run into the postseason. At the top of Shaver's heap are six seniors who have combined to win 73 games in three seasons and post an .849 career winning percentage, while a group of four juniors has known nothing but success in the ODAC Tournament, having posted six consecutive tournament victories, culminating in back to back ODAC championships.
Senior center Lane Brooks leads the way for the Tiger post game. In 2001-2002, Brooks recorded his finest season, leading the Tigers in points (12.0 ppg), rebounds (6.6 rpg) and free throw percentage (80.0%). With yet another season under his belt, the 6-8 center will once again look to be a force for the Tigers under the basket. Looking to continue his late season success a year ago, junior forward David Willson returns with a vengeance. After spending his early career in a Southern Methodist uniform, the 6-6 post turned to the Division III arena in 2001-2002. Willson came on strong last year and ranked third on the team in points (10.9 ppg) and second in rebounds (5.5 rpg) for the Tigers, creating a menacing one-two punch for the Tigers in the low post.
One of the surprises from a year ago, Jason Holman, returns for the Tigers. After playing in just six games as a freshman, Holman came on midway through the season to score 247 points (8.5 ppg) and grab 138 rebounds (4.8 rpg) in just 14.9 minutes of action per contest. With Brooks, Willson and Holman in the low post, senior forward Matt McKeag was able to step out and shoot the rock. McKeag drained 41 3s and ranked fourth on the team in scoring at 9.0 points per game, while also contributing 42 assists.
Six-foot-seven center Mike Thompson proved valuable in 2002 as a low post replacement. Thompson made the most of his time, averaging four points and two boards in just over 10 minutes of action per game. Thompson was also tough on defense, swatting a team-high 27 shots to give him 58 blocks for his career. Meanwhile, senior center Andy Jackson contributed as he averaged two points and two rebounds in just 16 games of action. All-in-all, the Tigers boast six talented veterans in the post, with five of the six listed at taller than 6-6.
Hampden-Sydney has
three talented swing men. Juniors Brandon Randall and
Jeff Monroe, along with senior Jay Patrick, give the Tigers' backcourt
and frontcourt options as each man has size, speed and shooting ability
to go along with rebounding and defensive skills. Randall is coming off
his best collegiate season, earning 2002 Second Team All-ODAC honors after
averaging just over 11.0 points and three rebounds per game. His 56 assists
ranked third on the team, while his 45 steals were a second-best mark.
His 6-6 frame gave him an instant height advantage, while his ball handling
and much-improved rebounding skills set him apart from most swing men
in the conference.
Jeff Monroe offered one of the most-improved and much anticipated performances of the season in 2002. The highly touted prospect finally had a healthy year and his performances proved invaluable as he earned ODAC All-Tournament honors with a brilliant performance in the ODAC Championship contest. Monroe's 8.8 points-per-game and 2.7 rebounds-per-contest throughout the season were much improved from his freshman campaign, and his 15.0 points-per-game average over the Tigers' final three postseason contests left many in anticipation for his 2002-2003 season. Meanwhile, Patrick eagerly awaits the 2002-2003 season in hopes of returning to his sophomore form in which he rated third on the team with an 8.3 points-per-game average.
In the backcourt, the Tigers return one of the best floor generals in the ODAC, along with two very capable reserves. Senior captain Marcus Gregory performed up to his lofty standards in 2002 as he earned All-ODAC honorable mention and post career-best numbers in points-per-game (4.5) and assists (109). Gregory's star shined no brighter than when he led the Tigers to a 92-79 victory against North Carolina Wesleyan in the opening round of play in the 2002 NCAA Tournament. Gregory nearly completed the first triple-double in H-SC basketball history with 10 points, nine rebounds and a career-best 13 assists in the game. Meanwhile, sophomores Rashee Durant and Brian Gunn each saw significant time running the point for the Tigers in 2002. Durant played in 25 games, made three starts and averaged 4.6 points and 2.4 boards-per-game to go along with 47 assists. Gunn came on strong by season's end as he recorded 23 assists and picked up seven steals in 21 games. In addition, senior guard Matt Rannals can be expected to make an impact. Rannals became an effective 3-point threat off the bench last season, connecting on seven in 18 tries.
The Tigers will have
three newcomers looking to make an immediate impact on
the team in 2002-2003. Two of the three are post players with 6-8 Aaron
Lewek and 6-6 Chris Anderson expecting to challenge for minutes. Lewek
graduated from Leesville Road High School in Raleigh, N.C., where he averaged
11 points, eight rebounds and three assists. He then attended the United
States Military Preparatory School for six months, averaging 13 points
and ten rebounds-per-game. Anderson meanwhile, is a Richmond product,
having graduated from Mills Godwin High School where he earned all-district
honors his junior year and took home all-district, all-region and all-tournament
honors his senior year after averaging 22 points and nine rebounds. The
backcourt will be bolstered by six-foot-two guard Matt Guill. Guill earned
all-conference and all-area honors at Emmaus High in Pennsylvania and
lettered three years.
Bridgewater
Head coach Bill Leatherman enters his 18th season at Bridgewater College
with a talented but very inexperienced roster. Only one starter, point
guard C.W. Durrette, returns from last year’s squad which finished
17-9 and tied for fourth place in the conference.
Lost to graduation are starters Kyle Williford (24.1 ppg), a consensus All-American pick and ODAC Player of the Year, Brett Childers (10.8 ppg), Matt Stevens (9.0 ppg) and David Downs (4.6 ppg). These four starters accounted for 65 percent of the Eagles’ scoring, 52 percent of the rebounding and 85 percent of three-point field goals made.
Obviously, finding players to step up and fill these holes will be a challenge for the Eagles this season. The other major challenge for the Eagles is the rest of the conference which is loaded with senior talent. The other nine teams in the league combined to graduate just seven starters. ODAC tournament finalists Hampden-Sydney and Randolph-Macon return their entire starting units. Additionally, only five other players return to the Eagles who logged at least 10 minutes per game – juniors Jeff Schwalm, Ryan Lambert and Andrew Lacey and sophomores Ricky Easterling and Matt Fitzgerald.
The loss of the seniors did pave the way, however, for a talented recruiting class. Two transfers sophomore Ashby Tarkington (Lynchburg) and sophomore Harry Moore (Livingstone College) should figure prominently in the Eagles plans. Also a freshman class including Clay Michael (Inwood, W.Va.), Richard Mallalieu (Luray, Va.), Rashun Davis (Richmond, Va.), Ryan Gibaldo (Lawrenceville, Ga.), Jonathan Warner (Monterey, Va.) and Zach Butler (Richmond, Va.) brings youthful talent to this year’s team.
The 2002-03 season will be a tough test for the Eagles as they try to mold this inexperienced roster into a competitive and successful team.
Eastern
Mennonite
“Bigger – Stronger – Faster.” That would be a good
way to describe the Royals of Eastern Mennonite entering into the 2002-03
season. After struggling to win in the ODAC last season, regularly playing
against teams with bigger post-players and deeper benches, the Royals
enter this season full of promise.
One player who gave EMU fans reason to believe that the Royals will experience success in 2002-2003 was sophomore forward E.J. Arrington. After averaging 12.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per game last season, Arrington was selected as the ODAC Freshman of the Year. Arrington proved to be an immediate impact player as a freshman due to his athleticism and versatility on the court, but he lacked big game experience at the collegiate level, something that was true of several other first year starters on the team last season.
Junior center Michael Swartley is poised for a great season as well. Swartley is the leading returning scorer on the team from a year ago having averaged 11.9 points and 6.6 boards per game. At 6-6 Swartley was the only true center on the Royals roster last season, which forced him to match up with the biggest and most physical players in the ODAC for at least 38 minutes each game. But things should be different this season. Aside from being more experienced in key positions, Coach Baker also has a much taller team this season after bringing in a recruiting class that includes three players listed at 6-7or taller.
Some of the new players that are expected to help the Royals right away include 6-7freshman forward James Morrison an athletic post player who will help offensively with his nice touch around the basket. A 6-7 freshman center, Jenson Long has fought knee problems throughout high school but is expected to contribute defensively and in rebounding giving Swartley a respite now and then. Then there is 6-8sophomore forward Robert Smith who has shown great potential in practice and will cause opponents to think twice before taking a shot in the paint due to his great shot-blocking ability.
With the graduation of scoring leader David Bell, Coach Baker is looking to replace the scoring that was lost with increased point production from several players. Newcomers including 6-1 junior Mike Culen who transferred from Potomac State Junior College, 6-4 freshman Bryan Williams, and 6-3 freshman Michael Stauffer are all capable of scoring from the perimeter giving the Royals an increased outside scoring threat.
With the versatile athletes that are on the roster this season, and more experience in key positions Coach Baker hopes to play a faster paced game in 2002-2003, forcing opponents to adjust to the Royals’ style of play and also forcing opponents to expend more energy on the defensive side of the floor. More depth on the roster this season will allow the Royals to run without worrying about having enough gas left in the tank to finish games strong.
Emory
& Henry
Emory & Henry looks to build on last year's 14-win season. The Wasps
had an eight-game improvement from the previous season. With 14 lettermen
(including six seniors) and six newcomers, the Wasps have their sights
on building on that success.
Coach Bob Johnson, entering his 23rd season at the helm of the Wasps, will have seven returnees who started at least one game last season. Johnson, who won his 300th game last season, has great optimism for this year’s team. “We are very athletic, have good team speed and should be a high scoring team.
If we can improve defensively we could have a super year” notes Johnson. The Wasps' season will begin in Baltimore at Johns Hopkins' tournament. They will also host the E&H Food Country Invitational, which includes Ferrum, Centre and Mary Washington. E&H adds Warren Wilson and Averett to the tough ODAC schedule.
Leading the returning players will be 2nd team All-ODAC honoree Justin Call. The junior averaged a team high 17.2 ppg and scored a career high 38 points vs. Averett. Feeding Call the ball will be senior point guards Paul Russo and Steve Carter. Russo, who averaged 8.7 ppg, led the conference in assists (5.1 apg) and assist to turnover ratio. Russo and Carter will be looked upon to direct the high-powered Wasp offense. In addition to Call, the Wasps will have depth at the wing position with Jay Rosser, Jason Smith, Ben Fisher, Paul Redgate and Chris Lawrence battling for playing time. Rosser, a 6-2 senior, was third on the team in scoring last year with 11.0 ppg. Junior Israel Long (8.5 ppg) will split time at both guard and forward positions.
Senior Cortez Watson and Sophomore Brandon Stanley will lead the Wasps frontcourt. Watson (7.7 ppg) and Stanley (5.5 ppg), who combined to average nine rebounds per game last year, will be looked upon to provide an inside presence for the Wasps. The frontcourt depth will come in the form of Senior Mike Abrahamson and Sophomore Will Sloan.
The Wasps look to continue their high scoring ways this year. Last year’s team averaged 83.6 ppg, which ranked them first in the conference and 18th in the nation.
Guilford
Guilford coach Butch Estes starts his fourth Guilford season with nine
letter winners back from last year’s 15-11 club (10-8 ODAC), the
Quakers’ best record since 1989. The season ended with a 57-55 loss
to ODAC Tournament champ Hampden-Sydney in the league quarterfinals. Four
seniors graduated in 2002, including the top two scorers.
“We need to find a replacement for the inside, outside and consistent scoring punch of Aron McMillian and Paul Kindem,” Estes said. “Somebody’s got to pick up that slack.”
McMillian (13.6 ppg, 7.3 rpg) provided a powerful post presence and made over 59 percent of his shots. Kindem (11.0 ppg) finished second on the team with 28 3-pointers.
Minus a dominant frontcourt player, Estes will pick up the tempo to maximize Guilford’s speed and athleticism. He’ll turn to his experienced juniors and a 14-player freshman class to build on the progress made over the last three years. Junior swingman Jevon Clarke is the Quakers’ top returning scorer (10.7 ppg) and has improved each season. Classmate Josh Connor (8.2 ppg, 9.1 rpg) is a top defender and despite his 6-2, 185-pound frame became Guilford’s first ODAC rebounding champion last year.
Sophomore Clarence Martin (4.4 ppg, 2.4 apg, 1.9 spg) started all 26 games at point guard as a freshman and capably filled the role. The coaches look forward to his continued progress and development in his second season. Junior sharpshooter Ron Bradford (7.2 ppg, 49 3-pointers) gave Guilford an outside threat last season. Robert Spence and Devon Clyborn will also help in the backcourt.
“We have enough returning players to have a good starting basketball team, but we don’t have enough returning players to have any kind of depth,” Estes said. “There are some (varsity) minutes available for some of these freshmen.”
Lynchburg
First-year head coach Andrew Miller is taking the first steps in rebuilding
the Lynchburg program. The team returns just two letter winners from last
season, but a promising freshman class bodes well for the future.Sophomore
Ryan Pehanick returns to the starting lineup after a successful freshman
campaign. The 6-5 forward averaged 8.9 points and 5.4 rebounds while shooting
51 percent from the field. Joining Pehanick in the front court is 6-5
junior forward Craig Wermuth, who averaged 3.3 and 2.0 rebounds in 23
games and 11 starts.
Senior Josh Cobbs will start at small forward after taking last season off. The versatile 6-2 swingman averaged 2.1 points in 2000-2001 and excels on the defensive end of the court. Junior Dedrick Craft should lead the offense from the point guard position. He missed all but one game in 2001-2002, and provides much-needed quickness and strength if he can overcome knee injuries. Freshmen Jacob Williams and Reed Fairchild could force themselves into the starting lineup at shooting guard and power forward with strong preseasons. Williams is a good shooter who is accurate beyond the 3-point line. Fairchild, a good passer from the post, also adds a physical, athletic presence to the lineup.
Freshman Andy Albright and junior Brian Davis will backup the point guard and shooting guard positions respectively. Freshman David Sheaffer will see time on the wing or in the front court, while 6-6 Patrick Prior will provide minutes in the paint. Todd and Travis Crown look to break into the rotation after seeing limited action in 2001-2002, while forward/center Zac Stinson steps back on the court after a two-year hiatus. Freshmen Adam D’Angelo and Matthew Sweeney and sophomore Trevor White will provide depth in the back court.
Miller will rely heavily on new blood as he brings his coaching philosophy and energy to the program. The Hornets look to improve in the highly competitive Old Dominion Athletic Conference as the newcomers mature and gain experience.
Randolph-Macon
Coming off one of the most successful seasons in recent years and an exciting
summer tour of Chile, Randolph-Macon is ready to make a run at the Old
Dominion Athletic Conference title. Last year, the Yellow Jackets finished
24-6 overall and 16-2 in the ODAC, winning the conference regular season
championship. Randolph-Macon was ranked No. 1 in the nation in the D3hoops.com
Top 25 for two straight weeks in January, played in the ODAC championship
game, and advanced to the Sweet Sixteeenof the NCAA Division III tournament.
The Yellow Jackets finished ranked No. 12 nationally and No. 1 1 in the
NCAA Division III South Region coaches poll.
The Yellow Jackets will be led by fourth-year head coach Mike Rhoades, who was named the ODAC Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season in 2001-02, and was also the National Association of Basketball Coaches South District Coach of the Year and the Virginia Sports Information Directors state Coach of the Year. Leading the Yellow Jackets on the court will be senior forward Jared Mills. He was named first-team all-conference and second team All-Region. Mills came off the bench to lead Randolph-Macon in scoring (14.7 ppg), rebounding (6.7 rpg), and blocked shots (27 total). He scored his 1,000th point in the ODAC semifinals, and currently has 1,062 career points.
Junior forward Kurt Bergmann stepped up his performance last year. He was a first-team all-ODAC pick and was second on the team in both scoring (13.1 ppg) and rebounding (5.9 rpg). After taking just one 3-point shot as a freshman, last year he led the ODAC in 3-point percentage, making 57 of 125 attempts (45.6%).
Senior guard Tim Smith will look to step up his performance even more in his final campaign. He was named Honorable Mention all-conference for the second straight season last year, as he scored 7.3 points per contest and also led the Yellow Jackets in both assists (3.4 apg) and steals (2.2 spg).
Junior guard Ryan Stein averaged double-figure points last season, scoring 10.9 points per game. He also contributed with 2.1 assists and 2.1 steals per contest. Senior guard Jamal Brunt checked in at 6.5 points and 2.5 assists per game in 2001-02.
A fourth senior, guard Ryan Sloper, will look to contribute in the backcourt this season. He turned in some fine performances last year and also during the team’s Chilean trip this past summer. Junior guard Buck Poropatich, junior forward Jim Silcox, and sophomore guards Justin Moyer, Brandon Scott, and Geoff Gunther will also provide valuable depth.
Lost to graduation from last year are forwards Marshall Rumney and Tom Ridder. However, Rhoades and assistant coach Miles Wilson have brought together another talented recruiting class. Guards Brian Kirchhoff, Rob Harris, and Patrick Gill and forwards Justin Wansley, Mike McGinley, and Tyler Alten will all compete for playing time in their rookie campaigns.
Roanoke
Roanoke returns four starters and nine letterwinners from last season’s
team that went 17-10 and 11-7 in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference
and with them comes high expectations. The Maroons welcome back their
top two scorers from a season ago, and the top five players in the rebounding
column. With the experience and the cohesiveness that the team gained
late in the 2001-02 season, head coach Page Moir looks for his club to
make a strong run at the ODAC title and the NCAA tournament.
As it has been over the past several seasons, guard play will spark the Maroons on both ends of the floor. Moir returns the team’s top scorer from a season ago, senior Robby Pridgen, who during the course of his career has solidified himself as one of the top perimeter threats in the region. Pridgen will again play at the Maroon off-guard spot, using his deep-range threat to help open things up inside. Senior Josh Foster, who can play either guard spot or the small forward position, comes back to Salem for the second season. Foster was Roanoke’s second leading scorer and brings back some of the best athleticism in the league.
The Maroons, who have to replace Jaimar Mansel (graduation) in the backcourt, will also count on Bryan Fasnacht, Drew Crowder, Robby Winfield, and freshman Jared Butler to bolster the guard play. Butler comes to Roanoke from West Springfield HS and is the brother of former RC standout Paris Butler.
With the emergence of Nate Stewart as a premiere frontcourt player last season, the Maroons have one of their strongest frontcourts in recent memory. Stewart’s fellow fourth-year player Heath Puckett was the lone Maroon to start in 27 games last season. While Stewart brings a more finesse, offensive oriented game to the court, Puckett brings a defensive and physical game. The RC coaching staff was thrilled with the progression of Kevinn Hunter during his freshman season and following an outstanding off-season conditioning program, expects the sophomore to become a dominant post player. Jason Graffam had an outstanding freshman season and averaged 6.3 points and a team-high 5.7 rebounds a game as a sophomore last season. Graffam’s no-nonsense approach to the game has been a major key to Roanoke’s ability to dictate the tempo.
Now in their junior seasons, the trio of Brett Wermuth, John Rutledge, and Joe Milton will have much increased roles in the Maroon system. Wermuth has worked hard on not only his shot, but more importantly his rebounding and inside play. Rutledge will seriously challenge for starting time, while Milton’s size, combined with his shooting touch will pay dividends for RC.
Washington
& Lee
Washington and
Lee head coach Jeff Lafave has many reasons to be excited for the 2002-03
basketball season. The Generals return four starters and seven lettermen
to the fold in addition to a recruiting class of six freshman, five of
which stand 6-foot-5 or better. W&L finished the 2001-02 season with
a 7-18 overall mark due, in part, to a lack of size and depth on the roster.
This season’s squad appears to have both.
“I feel much better about this season because we have a rotation,” said Lafave about the prospects for the season. “We can have competitive practices and we can put more experience on the court.”
Most of the Generals’ experience lies within its three captains, senior Scott Hettermann and juniors Hamill Jones and Michael Denbow.
A forward, Hettermann started 19 games and averaged team-highs in points (10.5 ppg.) and rebounds (6.3 rpg.) last season.
Jones joins Hettermann up front as a returning starter. He averaged 5.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game and showed flashes of brilliance as evidenced by a 32-point performance against Emory & Henry in which he was 15-of-16 from the floor.
Denbow runs the show from the point guard position where he started 12 games last season. He averaged 3.0 points, 1.8 rebounds and a team-best 3.1 assists per game.
The Generals' backcourt will have a lot of versatility according to Lafave. Sophomores Mike Stuart and Ian McClure both return after strong freshman seasons. Fellow classmate Wes McAdams also returns after nursing a shoulder injury all of last season. Freshmen Ryan Flynn and Ted Archer also figure into Lafave’s plans.
Stuart started 22 games in averaging 9.4 points and 2.3 rebounds per outing. He recorded 33 points on 7-of-10 three-point shooting against Eastern Mennonite and tallied 17 points against Division I William and Mary. McClure played in all 25 games with 12 starts as a point/shooting guard. He averaged 6.2 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game and tallied a career-high 24 points in a win over Lynchburg. McAdams played just one minute, but Lafave believes that the 6-foot guard can spell Denbow at the point guard position. Flynn possesses good size for a guard/forward and has solid ball handling and shooting skills, while Archer is a quick ball-hawking guard.
Sophomore Patrick Neuman and freshmen Johnson Bazzel, Phil Landes, David Will and Matt Lawless will all help spread the minutes around in the frontcourt. Neuman played in 19 games last season, averaging 2.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. He will join the team following the football season where he plays tight end for the Generals. Bazzel, Landes, Will and Lawless will also see extensive playing time spelling Hettermann, Jones and Franceski. Landes was a two-time all-conference selection at Mariemont High School in Cincinnati, while Will was a two-time all-district selection at Fairfax High School in Virginia.
“Our goal is to win a game in the ODAC Tournament this year,” said Lafave. “We want to move forward within the league and I think this is the year we might be able to do that. We’re still a very young team, but we have a great deal more experience than in recent years.”
Averett
Young. That is the operative word used to describe the 2002-03 Averett
University men's basketball team. Following a disappointing 4-22 finish
last season with a veteran squad, Averett head coach Kirk Chandler finds
a coaching challenge on the opposite end of the spectrum. With only five
players returning, Chandler and staff hit the recruiting trail hard and
have landed many talented newcomers that must play integral roles for
the Cougars to bounce back.
Averett was dealt the loss of five seniors from last year's team that contributed 68 percent of their 72.1 points per game. In August came a blow that Chandler and staff were not prepared for, as rising senior Joey Barksdale was called to active duty by the Virginia Army-National Guard. Barksdale averaged 7.6 points along with four rebounds per game, and was the teams only returning starter. Averett will have to depend on youth this season as the roster contains only one senior, three juniors (two of which are new to the program), three sophomores, and eight freshmen.
Poor shooting was the thorn in Averetts side last season. The Cougars shot 38% from the floor, compared to 48% shooting from their opponents. However, Chandler and staff focused on bringing in a recruiting class that could fill it up on a consistent basis.
"Our downfall last year was our inability to shoot the ball," said Chandler. "Therefore, we recruited hard for guys that could shoot, and we had a lot of luck in that realm."
Returning for the Cougars is a cast of players that have contributed in the past as reserves. However, they will each need to be bigger contributors this season, and provide leadership to the new faces on and off of the floor.
Averett guard Andre Gills (6-1, 165, G) is the lone Cougar senior. Gills averaged 3.5 points and 2.7 rebounds in 14.1 minutes per game last season. Even with his small frame, Gills has been a very solid rebounder in the past and must continue that strength.
"Andre is going to have to do more for us," said Chandler. "He is going to have to continue doing the good things he is known for, and that is to get into the interior for rebounds and offensive stick-backs."
Jermaine Coston (6-3, 215, F), the only returning junior on the roster, gave the Cougars some quality minutes in 20 games last season. He started eight contests and supplied 6.0 points, and 3.5 rebounds in 18 minutes played per outing. Coston is a post player, but has the ability to extend his game to the perimeter if needed. He will have to play big for the Cougars, as he will find himself guarding larger bodies on the defensive end.
Jerrod Harris (6-3, 195, F), who came on strong during the end of last season, will vie for a starting role at a forward position. Harris is one of the most athletic players in the league, and must use his quickness in the open floor to provide more scoring opportunities. He averaged 2.5 points per game a season ago, but has worked hard increasing his shooting range during the offseason.
Averett returns a pair of 6-6 sophomore post players in Justin Ballou (6-6, 220, F/C), and Kashif Johnson (6-6, 190, F). Ballou has gotten bigger and a half-inch taller over the summer. He will need to use his larger and stronger frame to mix it up in the paint and pull down more rebounds on both ends of the floor. With an improved shooting touch and a year of experience to his credit, he should have the ability to be a solid contributor to the Cougars in his sophomore campaign.
Johnson earned a spot
on the team during walk-on tryouts last season. He is much improved and
could challenge for important minutes this year.
Joining the five returning players from last season will be 11 new faces
on the Cougar sidelines.
"We went after big bodies, shooters, or athletes, and we landed all types of those individuals," said Chandler of his recruiting focus during last season.
When the Cougars are in need of a shot from the perimeter, Chandler will look to Mount Olive transfer Jake Vereen (5-11, 155, G). Vereen is full of basketball skills. He is quick, handles the ball well, and can shoot it as well as anyone. He averaged 7.4 points per game at Division II Mount Olive.
"Jake shoots it real well, he plays hard, and he knows the game," said Chandler. "He really wants to succeed, and that will do well for him and the team."
Joining Vereen in the battle for a starting role at the guard positions are Sterling Williams (6-0, 200, G), Brent Throneburg (6-3, 160, G), and Kendrick Shaw (5-11, 165, G).
Williams is a smooth player with range. He can hit shots from well beyond the arc, and is really good with the ball. The Halifax County High School standout participated in the VHSL East-West All-Star Game as a senior.
Throneburg and Shaw also have the ability to drain perimeter shots, and both are expected to be contributors in the backcourt. Shaw is quick with the ball, joining Vereen and Williams as possible point guard candidates. Throneburg is also a threat from the arc, but doesn't mind contact, and likes to take it to the hole.
Williamsburg native Jonathan Heath (6-5, 200, G) is a backcourt player that could provide matchup problems for opponents. He is a good shooter when he is able to get set, but the freshman needs to work on creating shots and getting quicker with the ball.
Toughness is what freshman Billy Gardner (6-7, 200, C) brings to the Averett squad. Gardner is comfortable with his back to the basket, and he has good range on his jump shot. He is strong enough that he will not be pushed around on the defensive end.
Rakeem Brawley (6-6, 175, F/C) has many of the same qualities encompassed by Gardner, and can take it to the hole as strong as anyone on the team. His solid interior defense and shot blocking skills will serve him well. Brawley and Gardner are very similar players, with Brawley having a slight edge in the quickness category.
Another newcomer expected to make an impact is freshman Lymon Gregory (6-4, 175, F). Gregory is an athletic type player much like teammate Harris, he uses his superior jumping ability to play above the rim. Gregory runs the floor well and can make things happen in the open court. He is a great defender, and loves to take it strong to the hole. Gregory was a high school teammate of Williams at Halifax High School in South Boston, VA.
Along with the talented group of recruits, Chandler also has a pair of potential walk-ons to consider when looking down his bench in Wayne Chambers (6-3, 215, F) and Tim Mickens (6-2, 160, G).
Chandler has a cast of players that are strong, quick, and athletic. He has players that can shoot the ball, that can create, and players that will battle in the paint for post points and rebounds. The one thing his team lacks is experience, and their ability to overcome that aspect will tell the tale of the season.
"How our young guys respond to the experience of college basketball will determine our success," said Chandler. "We have players with limited experience that will have to take on leadership roles. As a coaching staff, we need to find the right combination and do that in a hurry. Young guys are going to have to contribute quickly, and our veterans are going to have to assume more important roles. This team has the ingredients to be successful. We just need to continue to get better with each practice."
Methodist
The sign on the blackboard in the Methodist men’s basketball lockerroom
is simple – TRUST. It is the theme that head coach David Smith and
his team have united themselves with as they prepare for the upcoming
2002-03 season. Methodist is coming off a solid 2001-02 campaign in which
the Monarchs finished 16-11 overall and 10-4 in the Dixie Intercollegiate
Athletic Conference.
The Monarchs were picked to finish fifth in this year’s DIAC preseason poll. However, Smith believes this team can quiet most of the doubters if it rallies behind the common theme – TRUST.
"Our saying is ‘Trust,’ and that is what keeps us glued together," said Smith, 39-38 in three previous seasons at Methodist. "This team has good chemistry and they’ve been working real hard together. We’re going to be more athletic and up-tempo, and I think this should be a better season than last year."
That’s saying a lot considering Methodist lost four starters from last season’s team. That includes three-time All-DIAC forward Demarkus Byrd (14 ppg, seven rpg), plus point guards Auriece McClain and Duane Parham and 6-foot-10 sophomore center Arthur Hatch, who ranked third in the nation in blocked shots. Add to that steady forward David Carr and 3-point threat Carl Ollinger, and the Monarchs must make up for almost 50 points a game.
However, while the cupboard isn’t completely full, it’s not totally empty in the process. Methodist returns 10 players that gained considerable experience and should be key contributors for the Monarchs’ success in 2002-03.
It starts with junior forward Ron Brown. At 6-6 and 195 pounds, Brown is arguably one of the most versatile players in the DIAC. He averaged seven points and six rebounds last season. Senior guard Elliott Williams, one of the top defensive threats in the DIAC, joins Brown. The 6-0 Williams, the 1999-2000 DIAC Rookie of the Year, averaged six points a game last season and recorded 39 steals.
"Ron can play all five positions from the post to the point," Smith said. "We need him on the floor as much as possible for his consistency. You can’t talk about Ron without mentioning Elliott in the same breath. He’s a relentless defender and usually wears down the opposing point guard."
Junior point guard David Borkowski and senior Fred Jones are more than capable leaders at point guard, while Smith will also use Brown on occasion to run the point. Junior Ivan Little (6-4, 175) joins Williams on the wing as a legitimate threat on the perimeter, while senior Brandon Mish (6-2, 170) and freshmen Eugene Grant (6-2, 175) and Tiger Wright (6-3, 180) will provide strong depth on the perimeter.
In the post, Brown is a legitimate threat, as is senior senior Brian Nobles (6-4, 215). The key component in the paint this season is the addition of sophomore center Joe Standley. At 6-6 and 235 pounds, Standley, a transfer from Lees-McRae, gives the Monarchs a true weapon on the inside. He’s showed his skills and prowess early during preseason practice that he can score almost regularly around the basket.
The Monarchs have solid depth in the post in the form of junior Eddie Lamar (6-4, 195), senior Brandon Blalock (6-6, 230), sophomore Brian Booth (6-5, 205) and freshman Seth Thomas (6-3, 180).
"Our strength this year will be our offensive rhythm and rebounding on the offensive end," Smith said. "We have point guards that distribute well and play good defense, and Standley will be a difference in the paint. Beyond his ability, he has the enthusiasm and personality. He loves to play and compete and the guys like him. He can score every time he touches the ball."
The Monarchs are ranked behind North Carolina Wesleyan, Christopher Newport, Shenandoah and Greensboro in the race for the Dixie championship. Methodist opens the season on Nov. 22-23 at the Franklin & Marshall Sponaugle Tournament in Lancaster, Pa., on Nov. 22-23. Also included on the preseason slate are tournaments at Palm Beach Atlantic and La Grange, plus the inner-city showdown at Fayetteville State and a return trip to Division I Furman.
"North Carolina Wesleyan, Christopher Newport and Shenandoah are the teams to beat early in conference, but any team can do well," Smith said. "When conference time rolls around, I don’t believe anyone will take us lightly."
LaGrange
Change. For some people, the word can bring on feelings of fear and anxiety.
For LaGrange, change is welcomed.
The biggest change is the head coach position. Former assistant Warren Haynes was named the new head coach in the spring when the position opened. Haynes has been at LaGrange for six years, two as a player and the last four as assistant coach. He is ready for the change.
Another change is the amount of excitement and optimism surrounding this year's team. The Panthers went 11-16 last season and return five players who the team has leaned on for the past few seasons. They are ready for the change. The new players have embraced the change, coming in with a great attitude and unparalleled work ethic.
"If the guys we know can get it done and play up to their capabilities then it could be a very productive season," Haynes said. "We addressed some instant needs with wing scorers, post play and point guard."
Senior Jeffrey Pourchier has been voted by his teammates as captain for the 2002-2003 season. Pourchier has been the most consistent player over the last three seasons. Last season, he averaged 10.1 points per game and led the team with 5.6 rebounds per game. Pourchier is a tremendously smart player, who knows how to get the most from his teammates. Haynes and his coaching staff are looking for him to have breakthrough season in his final year as a Panther.
Maurice Smith is the other captain and the only other senior. Smith has been an intimidating force in the paint for LaGrange the last two years. He has worked hard on his offensive skills to go along with his excellent defensive ability. On defense, Smith was often asked to shut down the opposing team's best player, doing so with great intensity. He leads by example, benefiting the team with his leadership.
Mark Isenhour returns for his junior campaign a much better basketball player. As a sophomore, Isenhour started every game, averaging 10.5 points and five rebounds per game. His statistics have greatly improved from his freshman season, when he averaged six points and four rebounds per game. Haynes is hoping Isenhour will continue to improve this year, becoming a true "go-to guy", and one of the best post players in the NCAA 's South Region.
Returning at the wing position is junior Dale Lomax, who averaged 10 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season. Lomax is the most exciting player on the Panthers roster because of his athletic, energetic style of play. He can devastate a team by getting a monstrous tip dunk, or by grabbing a big rebound over the other team's big guys. Lomax is also developing into a great perimeter player. When Lomax's perimeter game becomes consistent as his athletic ability, he will be a player the likes of which the GSAC has never seen.
The final returnee from last season is Wesley Jones. During his sophomore season, Jones averaged six points and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 40% from the 3-point line and 88% from the charity stripe. He has developed into a more vocal, confident leader and basketball player. Jones worked hard during the off-season to become a dependable guard in a tight situation. He will be called on this year to be more of a scorer because of his great shot and knowledgeable shot selection.
These five players combined for over half of the offense and hauled in nearly half of the rebounds from last season. It is obvious the Panthers have a talented group of players returning.
Change for the Panthers is seen in the eight new faces on the roster this season. All eight players are great athletically, but more importantly, are great teammates. New players very different in their own right will be working together for the success of LaGrange.
Bart Payne is a junior college transfer from Northwest-Shoals Community College in Muscle Shoals, Ala. Payne's knowledge and experience will strengthen the low post position. His ability to score from the post and the perimeter will cause opponents problems. Payne averaged 13.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in a very tough Alabama Junior College conference.
Josh Hale is another transfer who will be relied upon heavily this year. Hale is a LaGrange native and returns to the hardcourt after taking time off from the game. He is a hard-nosed player, willing to do what it takes to come out on top. Hale is an athletic wing player who will be an asset to the Panthers. He can defend and rebound with anybody.
Brett Huckle transfers to LaGrange from Appalachian State. He was a teammate of Isenhour's at Brookwood High School. Huckle is a deadly accurate shooter but is more than a shooter. He is a good ball handler quick enough to penetrate and score or to set up a teammate for an easy scoring opportunity. Huckle will be an immediate contributor to the Panther program.
The incoming freshman class promises to be a very talented, enthusiastic group for the next four years. Kyle Lefebvre is a point guard with a knack for getting the ball into the right player's hands. His strength and quickness will cause problems for opposing team's point guards. Lefebvre averaged 12 points, six assists and three rebounds in leading Atlantic High School to the Elite Eight in Florida's Class 4A Classification.
Scott Coty, a Collins Hill (Ga.) graduate, comes to LaGrange after a great high school career. He has a great shot that he can get off against anyone due to his 6-5 frame. Coty averaged 13 points and six rebounds last year at Collins Hill.
Justin Hodges played at Providence Christian and led his team to the Elite Eight in Georgia's Class 1A classification. Hodges does a good job of getting into the lane, creating scoring chances for himself or his teammates. He averaged 18 points and six assists for Providence Christian.
Drew Eason is a player who will do anything asked of him. Eason plays full speed at all times, which allowed him to average 19 points and seven rebounds for Ballard Christian (Ala.) last year.
Corie Jackson, from Shaw High School in Columbus, Ga., is the best on-the-ball defender. Jackson is an extremely quick point guard whose enthusiasm for the game is unmatched. He averaged 12 points and seven assists per game for Shaw.
Haynes begins his head coaching career with a great group players, who want to do the things necessary to win. With the experience of the returners, and the skill and energy of the newcomers, the Panthers are ready and prepared for change.
More Previews
2001-02
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