Bobcat Cagers Host Exhibition Opener Saturday
11/1/2008 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Bobcat fans get their first look at Montana State's 2008-09 men's basketball team Saturday night, when MSU hosts Minnesota-State Moorhead in an exhibition at 8 pm in Worthington Arena.
While the Bobcats return only one starter and three other members of last season's varsity squad, Saturday's game marks the return of a pair of players who redshirted last season. Early indications are they'll be welcome additions.
"We're glad to have Erik (Rush) and Danny (Piepoli) back," MSU coach Brad Huse said. "They have both added maturity and strength, and I look forward to seeing how the gains they made in the off-season play out."
Rush and Piepoli join starting center Divaldo Mbunga, an honorable mention All-Big Sky selection last year, along with returners James Hennessy, Bobby Howard, and Branden Johnson. Mbunga averaged 12.0 points and 5.5 rebounds a game in 2007-08. Piepoli chipped in 3.0 points and 1.1 boards a game in 2007-08, while Rush averaged 2.3 points and 1.0 rebounds a game.
Saturday's exhibition game gives MSU fans their first opportunity to watch MSU's six newcomers, including a talented quartet of junior college transfers expected to contribute immediately. Guards Marquis Navarre and Will Bynum give Huse a tenacious and versatile duo on both ends of the floor, while guard Larry Swann is an offensive threat from the perimeter and finishing at the rim. Forward Cameron Henderson has brings strength inside.
A pair of freshmen will also be asked to contribute this year. Center Cody Anderson, at 6-10, 270, brings size and skill inside, while Austin Brown brings athleticism and versatility to the wing. Freshman point guard Trevor Hopkins is a redshirt possibility.
After Saturday's exhibition opener, MSU hosts the University of Mary on November 10 in its final tune-up for the regular season.
While the Bobcats return only one starter and three other members of last season's varsity squad, Saturday's game marks the return of a pair of players who redshirted last season. Early indications are they'll be welcome additions.
"We're glad to have Erik (Rush) and Danny (Piepoli) back," MSU coach Brad Huse said. "They have both added maturity and strength, and I look forward to seeing how the gains they made in the off-season play out."
Rush and Piepoli join starting center Divaldo Mbunga, an honorable mention All-Big Sky selection last year, along with returners James Hennessy, Bobby Howard, and Branden Johnson. Mbunga averaged 12.0 points and 5.5 rebounds a game in 2007-08. Piepoli chipped in 3.0 points and 1.1 boards a game in 2007-08, while Rush averaged 2.3 points and 1.0 rebounds a game.
Saturday's exhibition game gives MSU fans their first opportunity to watch MSU's six newcomers, including a talented quartet of junior college transfers expected to contribute immediately. Guards Marquis Navarre and Will Bynum give Huse a tenacious and versatile duo on both ends of the floor, while guard Larry Swann is an offensive threat from the perimeter and finishing at the rim. Forward Cameron Henderson has brings strength inside.
A pair of freshmen will also be asked to contribute this year. Center Cody Anderson, at 6-10, 270, brings size and skill inside, while Austin Brown brings athleticism and versatility to the wing. Freshman point guard Trevor Hopkins is a redshirt possibility.
After Saturday's exhibition opener, MSU hosts the University of Mary on November 10 in its final tune-up for the regular season.
Wednesday, August 19
Wednesday, June 10
Monday, March 23
Friday, March 13
