COLUMBUS, Miss. – The Owls men's basketball team returns to action after nearly a year off due to the coronavirus pandemic. With just over two weeks of practice, The W will begin the 2020 season at home against Campbellsville University – Somerset on Friday, Jan. 15.
The fellow USCAA institution has become a mainstay in the Owls schedule and will be a familiar start to an unprecedented season. The W traveled to Somerset, Ky. last season and came home with a 99-86 victory over the Tigers.
The Owls graduated five powerhouse players after the 2018-19 season, and head coach
Brian Merkel will look at several of his more veteran players to step into new positions to make up for the loss. Back in the lineup after taking a semester off, senior forward Jaquan Hines rejoins the Owls for his final season. Hines played and started in nine games for 27 points, 40 rebounds, and 25 blocks in just half a season of play.
Also returning to the team is senior guard
Austin Taylor. Taylor returns with a can-do attitude and experience on the court. He is expected to step up as a scorer for the Owls.
The Owls roster also includes several experienced juniors in
Brien Kimmons,
Davon Kennick,
Josh Gonsalves,
Ddallen Bailey, and many sophomores and newcomers.
The first Owls men's basketball game of the season will tip-off at 7 p.m. inside of Emma 'Ody' Pohl Gymnasium. Spectators will not be allowed in the game, but you can follow the action at OwlsAthletics.com.
