Can Belmont University's men's basketball team, brimming with returning players, truly be a championship contender? That's the burning question on everyone's mind as Coach Casey Alexander gears up for the upcoming season. With a roster boasting a significant number of returning players, Belmont is poised to make waves in the Missouri Valley Conference.
Eleven familiar faces are back in the fold, including the sharpshooting guard, Tyler Lundblade, who led the nation in three-point shooting last season. But here's where it gets controversial... the team also saw the departure of key players who were among the top scorers. This means several returnees will need to elevate their game, two incoming transfers must become crucial contributors, and three redshirt freshmen will need to quickly adapt.
Despite these potential challenges, Coach Alexander exudes unwavering confidence. He boldly declares, "I think this team can win the Valley, and I think this team can win the tournament." He believes they possess all the necessary "pieces" to achieve championship status.
Lundblade, the star returnee, is undoubtedly a focal point for opponents. He averaged 12.4 points per game while sinking an impressive 48.1% of his three-pointers. Expect him to face intense defensive pressure. Coach Alexander anticipates Lundblade adapting, developing new strategies to get open, and even embracing a role as a screener or decoy to create opportunities for his teammates.
Other players are primed for breakout seasons, including sophomore forward Sam Orme, who averaged 9.5 points while shooting 50% from the field. Joining him in the frontcourt are junior Brigham Rogers and sophomore Drew Scharnowski, both of whom have the potential for significant improvement.
The two key transfers, Nic McClain (from Eastern Washington) and Isaiah West (from Vanderbilt/Samford), could be the answer to the team's point guard needs. Coach Alexander acknowledges this position as a current "question mark," but remains optimistic about the players' potential.
McClain, a 6-foot-3 guard, brings experience and a strong connection to Belmont through his brother, a former player. He averaged 10.6 points and 3.8 assists for Eastern Washington. Coach Alexander describes him as a solid player on both ends of the court.
West, from nearby Springfield, started nine games at Vanderbilt before transferring. At Samford, he averaged 2.5 points per game. He's currently recovering from a shoulder injury but is considered the team's best on-ball defender, known for his toughness.
Another player to watch is freshman guard Jack Smiley. Coach Alexander is impressed with Smiley's performance, noting he's the only freshman on the team and has been performing tremendously.
Aiden Noyes, who averaged 4.3 points last season, is another returning player who could make a significant contribution. The team also welcomes three redshirt freshmen: guards Jabez Jenkins and Cooper Haynes, and forward Eoin Dillon. Coach Alexander expects all three to be in the rotation, praising their intelligence, toughness, and vocal leadership.
The schedule appears manageable, with the most challenging non-conference games being road trips to UC Irvine and Oral Roberts. The Bruins are expected to contend for a top spot in the Missouri Valley.
Coach Alexander emphasizes the advantage of having so many returning players, allowing for a deeper understanding of each player's capabilities and roles. This contrasts with the previous season, where the team had many new faces, and their strengths and weaknesses were only revealed through game experience.
What do you think? Do you agree with Coach Alexander's assessment of the team's potential? Which players are you most excited to watch this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
