The Lumberjack basketball TEAM began the preseason competing at Dickinson State in a Jamboree. We played 3 games in 5 hours on our way to a 2-1 finish. It was nice to see the freshman in action and the sophomores embracing leadership roles. Overall we finished the Jamboree with wins against Dawson CC and Dickinson State before falling to Bismarck State in our final game. It would be easy to pass judgment after a few competitions, but the finish line is too far away for any true evaluation. At the end of the day I can say we had moments of tremendous teamwork, intensity, and execution but several concerns were validated along the way.
At this point in the preseason we expect our sophomores to carry the load of preparation and breeding confidence to the TEAM. Julian Vasquez was fairly solid on the offensive end with a good mixture of scoring and passing. Our organization and tempo was controlled by Billy Engel throughout the 1st two contests. Transfers Jake Arck and Kolbi Selby stepped in and looked comfortable in new uniforms as they executed TEAM strategies at an above average level. These four players will be asked to fast forward the learning curve through a better understanding of competition at the college level.
Coaches understand one of the primary keys to consistently winning is the wisdom of veteran leadership. Many coaches also understand in junior college this is not a luxury to be counted on, and young players must step in immediately to impact games. Several incoming freshman performed exceptionally in their first form of college competition. Xavier Cruz (PG), Jalyn Turner (G), Giberto Shojgreen (F), Same Robinson (F) and Travis Frye (G) had several moments where the coaching staff believes these players can be counted on as we move forward. We do have two key players who are continuing to rehab nagging injury. Julian Short (F) and Wesley Harrison (F) were both unavailable to play due to minor physical pain.
DSU's Jamboree provided great insight on the type of TEAM we can be, and the type of TEAM we can not be. Shot selection (our shot vs your shot) became an issue at times which is always a concern for young teams, of course rebounding without two of your interior players was difficult, and playing at a consistently fast tempo will be areas of improvement for our guys. The best part of the Jamboree is all negative comments to be made are problems with an obvious solution. It is up our to our coaching staff and the commitment of our players to be honest with each other as we strive to become better on a daily basis.
WE are in action again over the weekend with two exhibition games against Brandon University. Friday, October 18th we will tip off in Brandon at 8pm followed by a 6pm tip off on Saturday the 19th. This is another strong contest against an older opponent (5 year institution) who is good enough to expose our weaknesses during mistakes. Stay tuned for an update on Sunday to catch up on the news and details.
Take Care Lumberjack Supporters!
Get Jacked UP,
Cory Fehringer
