Men’s basketball dominates this season

By James Gruenfelder

Hood College men’s basketball has been dominating the MAC Commonwealth this season.

After starting the season 16-4 and tying for first place posting an 8-2 record in conference play, the Blazers look to make a deep postseason run.

 Throughout the week the team physically and mentally prepares for their future opponent to have them locked down when the minutes matter. “We watch a lot of film as a staff, and as a team, to familiarize ourselves with our opponents as much as possible,” coach Chad Dickman said. “Everyone outside our program only sees the games, but 90% of the work is behind closed doors.”  

In the last game against Albright, graduate student Justin Gielen totaled 22 points in 21 minutes played. “We embedded a habit of being competitive into everything we do,” Gielen said. “The drills we do are either games against each other or games together, competing against our past performances. So, we are always competing against ourselves and getting sharper in the process.” 

Playing at the BB&T arena is also a benefit for the Blazers. Having a record of 10-2 on the home court will help boost momentum for the upcoming playoffs. The arena hosts large crowds for the games which brings a rowdy and electric atmosphere. 

“We love anytime we get a big crowd and thank the Hood community for showing out for us this year,” junior guard Troy Fulton said. “The bigger the crowd, the more enjoyable the atmosphere is to play in.” 

Now, the quest for the MAC Commonwealth championship continues as the Blazers have two games remaining before the playoffs begin. The team does not plan on stopping if the MAC Commonwealth championship returns to Hood. “The bigger goal is to advance as far as possible in the NCAA Tournament,” Dickman said. “We have proven we can compete with any team in the country, so if we can get into the NCAA Tournament, I think we can surprise some people.”