Men’s basketball goes all in this year
Jesus Arce, Staff Writer
At North Greenville University, expectations are high as the men’s basketball team prepares for a new season.
In this interview, important details about the upcoming season and the players’ mentality were revealed, with a focus on the team’s preparation. Justin Perry, a junior small forward position, of a great reputation on the field, expressed his point of view on why this season is special.
“As a team, we all share the same goal which is to win the next championship,” Perry said, which verifies the team’s discipline and determination. Also, he wanted to emphasize the importance of remaining undefeated at home.
Perry feels the best way to support his team is by making key three points and helping on defense. This last one for Perry is one of the most important factors at the time in affronting tournaments. In his words, defense is more important than anything else.
“As long as you play defensive, stop the other team from scoring. You’re always going to be in the game, you’re always going to have a chance to win. So, defense, if you could stop somebody is going to win the game for you every time” Perry said.
Head coach Chad Lister, with his 22 years of experience, wanted to emphasize how important and special it is for him and his technical staff to work in this school. “We have a very young team whose mission is not only to play basketball but to fulfill the mission of the school,” said Lister.
Lister also wanted to emphasize that as the mission of reaching others with Christ is a goal, so is performing well educationally. This demonstrated his motivational vision, which has been tested by playing with high-performance teams to test his players.
“Facing strong teams prepares us to deal with success, that motivates us to fight every game,” Lister said. This shows Lister’s strategy and his winning mentality. He expects that this year will not repeat what happened last year, where injuries were a problem for his plan.
“The biggest difference this year is we’re healthy. Three years ago, we were the best teams in the league and fell short, it’s been hampered by injuries. A lot of injuries, a lot of season-ending injuries, it’s difficult to measure how good we could have been. But finally, we are healthy,” Lister said
With a solid plan in his mind, Lister also wanted to affirm his objective. “Without a doubt, our only goal this season is to win the championship, whether it’s the regular season or the tournament championship,” said Lister. Which shows his vision as a visionary man.
The North Greenville Crusaders are ready to face a new basketball season that promises plenty of excitement and drama for spectators. With a young team, an experienced coach and the planning and discipline of the staff, we expect to have a successful season.
Lister has high hopes that everyone on campus will come support this season and the players. “We want all our students and faculty staff to be in the gym for every home game and make it a tough place for our opponents to play. We deserved to have a full gym for our home games,” Lister said.
Feature photo provided by Devoinaire Willoughby.
