As the Mt. SAC Men's Basketball Team prepares for the 2024 season, Head Coach Michael Fenison is excited about the fresh roster stepping onto the court. Coming off a remarkable 25-4 season and a conference championship, expectations are high. However, this year's team faces the challenge of building chemistry and establishing their identify as a largely new team. "It will be a challenge to live up to that again this year," Fenison contimplates. "Winning 25 games is a great season, but we will see what we can do."

 

He is aware of the team's situation: "We're young and there aren't many returners – only two players from last year's squad. It's a brand-new team, and while that's exciting, we'll see how our talent will translate to the court," he remarked.

 

They primary focus for this season is on teamwork and altruism. "We're emphasizing the importance of working for each other and buying into what we are trying to build," Fenison explained. "Right now, we don't have goals for how many points or rebounds each individual player needs; its all about coming together and learning to play as a unit."

 

Transitioning from high school to college basketball can be an eye-opening experience, and many players are still finding their footing in this new environment. "They're still figuring out the little things, like how to get to the locker room," Fenison chuckled. "They'll come down from the clouds at some point, but it's going to take time."

 

As for the newcomers living up to Mt. SAC's standards and school motto of being the place where the world's best athletes compete, "They have no idea about the significance of playing here and the expectations that come from being part of a very good program and upholding that legacy, but they will," Fenison reflects.

 

The team's first scrimmage against LA Valley College on October 18 will serve as an opportunity to assess their progress and identify potential starters. The rigorous strength and conditioning regimen, led by Coach Harrison, is designed to prepare the team for a demanding schedule ahead. "I'm a simple guy—learning happens through repetition," Fenison said. "I know they get bored, but we focus on doing the same drills over and over again because we can't move forward until they master it."

 

With a challenging slate that likely includes eight ranked opponents in their first twelve games, starting with a matchup against Citrus College on Thursday, October 31, Fenison knows that they will need to be ready to compete from day one. "We've got to show up. It's a tough schedule, but it's meant to prepare us for conference play," he emphasized.

 

As the young athletes adapt to the demands of college basketball, the coaching staff remains focused on instilling values of perseverance and hard work. Fenison remains optimistic stating, "I'm excited for the guys and eager to see how we will perform."

 

While there may be doubts about the team's immediate ranking potential due to their youth, Fenison insists that such factors are irrelevant until the season's conclusion. "I told the guys not go get caught up in that. Social media and rankings don't play the game for you; it's all about what we do on the court."

 

With the first game of the season just around the corner, the Mt. SAC Men's Basketball Team is ready to embrace the journey ahead, eager to carve out their own legacy and rise to the challenges that await them under the guidance of their fearless leader. The combination of youthful energy, hard work and a touch of blissful ignorance could pave the way for an exciting season.

 

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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.