By Nicholas Schmidt
The Men’s Basketball team at Fort Hays State University began practicing in October and we’ll be in the stands cheering them on during their first game of the season before you know it.
Last season, the Tigers finished the year 16-13, leaving them feeling unsatisfied as compared to prior seasons. One of the key losses of the 2014-15 season was losing a player due to injury, rather than losing a ballgame. Early on last season, starting point guard Craig Nicholson fractured his fibula ending his season. After losing their leader, the Tigers had a difficult time controlling and winning games.
This year, the Tigers have been picked sixth in the MIAA (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association) Preseason Coaches Poll. The return of senior Craig Nicholson is certainly something to look forward to, as he led the team in scoring with 17.2 points per game, and a single season school record of 7.4 assists per game during the 2013-14 season as a sophomore. While not reaching the mark of 20+ wins for the first time in three years, the Tigers look to bounce back this season with a stronger performance.
The Tiger Men’s Basketball team begin play with two away exhibition games against Kansas State and No. 4 Kansas on November 6 and 10. An astonishing nine-game home streak will officially get the ball rolling to start off their season. Southwest Minnesota State University will be the first competitor as they come to town on Saturday, November 14.
Be sure to come out to Gross Memorial Coliseum to support FHSU Men’s Basketball, tip-off is set for 7 pm.