Ripon College Days

Media Credit: Photo by Andrew Krajewski Teamwork The men's basketball team confers during an early season practice. [Click to enlarge]

Last season was a successful one for the Red Hawks men's basketball team, a season they're looking to repeat this year.

Success has been no stranger to the team since Head Coach of Basketball Bob Gillespie took over more than 20 years ago, and the pieces are undoubtedly in place to make another run at the national tournament.

The squad is a solid mix of returners and newcomers. Their strengths include a balanced offense, experience and good overall depth. Obstacles could arise in the absence of last year's senior leaders and guard play.

Junior guard Jonathan Murphy says the team will also be "focusing more on teamwork, and focusing more on defense."

Key returners include junior David McMullen at point guard, sweet-shooting junior Bo Johnson as forward and junior Brian Schmitting at center. Replacing key positions held by now alumni players are Gillespie's picks to click, sophomore Paul Wise at forward and Murphy.

Many opportunities to test the team's strengths and patch up weaknesses will arise this season, especially Nov. 25 against two-time defending national champion University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and in conference play.

But, "Lawrence is the team to beat this year," says sophomore Chris Kellett, forward.

The season began Nov. 1 with a 97 to 81 exhibition loss to UW-Green Bay. The team heads to the Beloit tournament Nov. 18.

Article Tools