Coach Bernard Tomlin enters his 10th campaign as the men’s head basketball coach fired up and ready to go with a talented slew of new players. In fact, the team will see the addition of twelve new players who will join the returning four. Although a lot of production from last year’s team is missing, the coach doesn’t seem too worried and promises, “We’ll have a fresh, new look and a lot of energy.”
It’s no secret that a big part of the Panthers success last season was their inside game. Departed seniors, Lester Prosper and Frantz Granjean powered the Panthers to a lot of victories. Coach Tomlin is very well aware of the situation saying, “We lost two guys who were first team all conference, so there are definitely big holes to fill.” Expected to pick up some of that slack are newcomers Tavon Mcnair and Robert Saunders. Although new to the program, they’re extremely talented. Their versatility will allow them to see a lot of playing time in the front court. “With the addition of these two guys, it could be an interesting year,” Tomlin said.
Other players who will be counted on include returnees Matt Duffy and Jamal Little. Little, a senior was the third leading scorer on last year’s team and will be looked upon for even more scoring this year. Duffy, mainly a three point specialist last year, will also be asked to shoulder some more of the load. While the increased scoring should come naturally, the leadership roles might be different for the players. Coach Tomlin says, “It’s going to be important that they take up some leadership because they have experience at this level and in the Skyline Conference.” Their leadership will be imperative in the development of some of the new players, whom Tomlin also seems very excited about, “Kerel Mitchell, Rashawn Mccarthy, Omari Trebuse, Taylor Powell and Dayshawn Long are all new to our program. They play with a high level of intensity. They can all play up tempo and [they all] have three point range.”
With the big guys down low gone, a new style has been implemented. The coach promises a faster pace, saying, “We’re aiming to play a very high energy, quick, up-tempo style.” it should be a fun season. While overcoming the loss of the two big guys won’t be easy, there’s still a lot of talent to work with. If the team works hard and plays up to its potential, things could get very interesting. The season starts November 19th at home vs. Alfred State.