The Shippensburg University men’s basketball team is looking to take the league by surprise in 2014.
Finishing 2013 with a 3-23 record and picked eighth in the PSAC East Preseason Coaches Poll ahead of only Cheyney, the Raiders squad looks mediocre at best on the surface.
Head Coach Chris Fite returns in 2014 for his second season at the helm of the Red Raiders. Four out of five starters return as well for the team, including sophomore Abe Massaley, junior Jay Hardy, sophomore Tony Ellis and sophomore Marcus Williams.
“We have a lot of guys coming back that played big minutes for us last year,” said Fite. “As tough as last year was to go through, I think we’ll be that much better for it.”
Also returning after an injury redshirt last year is senior Dylan Edgar, who is strong on both sides of the ball and has great value to the young team as a veteran.
“I had a injury year last season where I was sitting on the sidelines, watching the games go on and watching the team struggle at times,” said Edgar. “It gave me a different perspective. I’m really excited to be back and I’m ready to contribute this year and help the team succeed.”
The 2014 squad is a hungry group ready to prove that they are better than No. 8 in the division.
“We want to approach the season with a chip on our shoulder,” said Fite. “We know personally through working day in and day out that we’re talented enough to really be relevant in our conference, to make the playoffs and to make some noise.”
The Raiders picked up a number of freshmen this season as well, that currently are battling for roster spots. This adds much-needed depth to the roster, which boasts 17 players; last year there were only 12.
“We have added some much-needed depth this year,” said Fite. “We have some pieces in place so that we can really take a step forward this year.”
Jaren Gembe, in his second season with the Raiders, was promoted to assistant coach after playing at SU from 2007-2011. He takes over from Eric Rahauser, and looks to help the team rebuild.
The Raiders played in an exhibition game on Friday, losing to Duquesne 72-69. But they kept pace all game and saw big performances from Edgar, freshman Justin McCarthur and Massaley.
Shippensburg takes on Georgian Court next Friday at 8 p.m. for its home opener in the Wolf Bus Lines Classic.
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