Men's hoops do not expect rebuilding season

After being hampered by injuries last season, the men's basketball team looks to turn things around in its season opener tonight at home against the non-conference Springfield College Pride at 7 p.m. at Cousens Gym.

The Jumbos hope to improve upon last season's disappointing 12-13 overall record (3-6, NESCAC) against the Pride, who come in with a record of 1-1 after competing in the Rose City Classic in New Jersey this past weekend hosted by Drew University. Springfield handily defeated Ursinus College, 73-59 in the opener, but then lost to the Keene State Owls 69-57 in the championship game.

After an abnormally long preseason _ 25 days instead of the usually 16-18 _ the Jumbos are excited to finally start their season.

"We're all really excited and prepared to play somebody else besides ourselves," coach Bob Sheldon said.

Sheldon has chosen to start five returning members of his team in tomorrow's game. Senior co-captains Jim Wilson and Brian Shapiro will anchor the team at the guards, senior Mike McGlynn, who led the team in scoring with 18 points per game last season. Sophomore Reggie Stovell will start at the forward spots, and 6'7 sophomore Craig Coupe, who lead the team with 8.4 rebounds per game and 2.2 blocks per game last season and received NESCAC rookie of the year honors, rounds out the starting five at center.

The depth of the Jumbo squad will truly be tested for the first few weeks of the season, as it has already lost a few key players to injury. Most notably is starting junior point guard Eric Mack who suffered a severe foot sprain and is likely out until January. In addition, 6'8 freshman forward Dan Martin, who likely would have seen important playing time, suffered torn ligaments in his ankle, and like Mack, is likely out until January. Finally, 6'5 freshman forward Scott Armstrong will miss the first few weeks of the season due to injury as well.

"Because of all our injuries, our reserves are going to play a key role in the success of the team," Sheldon said. "Andrew Kaklamanos transferred from a school in Florida, and is going to see considerable minutes. Also, freshman Blaine Lay will play a lot. We also have guys like Deyvehn East, Colin Wetherill, and Bisi Ezeolu who can come in and have an immediate impact on the game."

Despite these injuries, and the loss of junior Phil Barlow and seniors Lee

Neugebauer and Kyle Van Natta, both who quit for personal reasons, the Jumbos maintain a positive outlook for the season.

After only losing three seniors to graduation last season, the Jumbos biggest asset this season is probably experience. Their new, bigger offense, anchored by their five seniors, features players most of whom saw substantial minutes last season.

"This season is by no means a rebuilding year," Sheldon said. "A lot of people played valuable minutes last year, and every player who is starting this year started at least a few times last year. We have a ton of talent, and all of our starters have had a year to play together and get comfortable with each other. We're looking to have a very successful season."

The Jumbos played the Pride once last season, losing a tough battle at Springfield, 80-74, but the Jumbos won the previous four meetings.

"We match up well with them," Sheldon said. "We haven't played a game yet, while they have already played twice, but once we get ride of the opening game jitters, I think we should be okay."