Hunter O. Lyle—Sports Editor
Earlier this month, the men’s basketball team’s playoff run was cut short, losing in the NE10 Conference Semifinals to rival UNH. With the team losing four key seniors- guards Joey Wallace, Isaiah McLeod, Kealan Ives and forward Luke Beesley there is speculation on what next year’s lineup may look like. This is what I think the starting five should be:
Point Guard:
The top option to lead the team’s offense would most likely be sophomore C.J. Ives, who put up 14 points, three rebounds, and two assists a game. He also scored 37 points in the opening home game victory against Stonehill College in the first round of the playoffs. Seaforth is quick, he’s a natural scorer, and he has two more years ahead of him at Southern to develop his game as well as his leadership.
Shooting Guard:
With Seaforth moving up to the point, it leaves another spot open. I believe that the team should utilize two young players whom we haven’t seen much from this past season at this position. Freshmen Michael Mozzicato and William Antrum, could use their remaining three years to work on their game while providing the team with shooting and an effort to grab boards.
Small Forward:
Ulyen Coleman, who claimed the title of NE10 ROTY his freshman year, fell to an injury this year and was ruled out for the season. While he was unable to play the last few games this season, he still managed to average 14 points a game and four rebounds. Once he recovers, he would instantly benefit the team.
Power Forward:
The 6’6” 250-pound frame of Issac Grant, a junior first-year player, would not only contribute to the team’s rebounding effort, but he could also use his height to intimidate opponents in the paint. With Beesley leaving and the current power forward possibly moving to center, this upcoming season could be Grant’s chance to step up.
Center:
As previously stated, senior center Beesley has played his last game, which leaves a spot in the paint open for junior Taurus Adams II, who averaged five points and almost four boards a game. Adam’s low-post defense and offense could boost the team during shooting slumps. Of course, I am not the coach, and multiple players can play different positions. While the Owls will lose a lot of talent, the team still has many younger players that can develop further and help the team for years to come.
