1993 25th Season 2018
Volume 25, Number 1
October/November 2017
Player of the Year
Preseason Preview 2017-18!
Top 25 Predictions Top 10 Teams: 1. Augustana (Ill.) 2. Whitman 3. Marietta 4. Chris. Newport 5. Amherst 6. Emory 7. Wis. River Falls 8. Williams 9. Hanover 10. Ramapo Page 5
Nate Axelrod, OhioWesleyan
1993
25th Season 2018
Twitter: @SmallColHoops www.smallcollegehoops.com
Coaching Changes Page 3 Conference Previews 2017 All-American Teams
Page 5 Page 12
Editorial We Made It: 25 Years Editor & Publisher Gary S. Rubin ■
Art Director Steve Fisher ■
Contributing Editor Sydney Rubin Business & Editorial Office GSR Communications Email: [email protected] DIII News is published 14 times from October to April by GSR Communications. Subscription price: $52 per season. © Copyright 2017 by GSR Communications. POSTMASTER: Send all change of address requests to above address. Printed in USA www.smallcollegehoops.com Twitter: SmallColHoops
Publishing Schedule DIII News will publish 14 editions this season. Here’s a schedule to help you keep track of all the issues:
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Preseason Preview December 6 December 13 December 20 January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 February 1 February 7 February 14 February 21 March 1 Postseason Review
Welcome to the 2017-18 DIII News Preseason Preview issue! We are excited about this upcoming season and glad to have you join us for what should be a terrific campaign. This is a milestone season for this publication: it’s our 25th season of covering Division III men’s basketball. In 1993, we started with an idea, took a chance, and now here we are. A quarter of a century has gone by pretty quickly, with lots of life changes along the way. Players we covered years ago have blossomed into coaches and readers. Coaches have come and gone. New schools have entered Division III. The only constant has been change, plus the fact that you have continued to support our efforts. That is the only reason we are still able to bring you the information that you need. This past offseason, I read two good books that both related to college basketball. The first was Shoe Dog, the memoir from Nike founder Phil Knight. Without question, Nike altered the college basketball landscape and it was interesting to read how Knight took his own idea and grew it into one of the world’s largest companies. Of course, I read the book before the recent bribery scandal that is rocking college basketball and it’s not hard to understand how we got here. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the months to come. The second book was Coach Wooden and Me by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It’s a touching story of a coach and his player and how their friendship lasted 50 years. If you’re a coach, I highly recommend this book and the lessons it teaches of the impact you have on your student athletes. Now, to the upcoming season. To begin, you will see a number of new coaches listed on the next page. This was an active off-season for coaching moves and we wish all the new floor generals luck this campaign. The publishing schedule will be familiar to our readers. Four years ago we expanded the schedule to 14 issues a season and it was well received. We’re sticking to that again this year after the tremendous 2
DIII News • October 2017
feedback. Basically, you’ll hear from us weekly in January and February during the heart of the season and the run-up to the NCAA tournament announcement. As always, the process of compiling the Top 25 was a challenge. The No. 1 ranking this preseason goes to national runner-up Augustana (Ill.), which returns four starters from last year’s team that fell to Babson in the title game. A number of teams, including Whitman, Marietta, Christopher Newport and Amherst are close behind for the top spot so it should be a competitive season. O h i o We s l e y a n s e n i o r N a t e Axelrod headlines the Top 24 AllAmericans listed on page 12 as our Preseason Player of the Year. I want to thank our corporate partner for being part of our publication. SNA Sports is back as the title sponsor of the DIII News Coach of the Year and the Coach of the Month award as well. The company is a big supporter of small college basketball and was great to work with last year for our biggest award. I hope you call on SNA Sports when your equipment needs arise and thank them for their support of Division III basketball. Be sure to visit out our web site, www. smallcollegehoops.com, and follow us on Twitter (@SmallColHoops) for updates between our regular issues. Thanks for your support and we’ll see you in December with the next edition.
Gary Rubin Editor & Publisher
Newsroom 2017 Division III Coaching Changes School Cal Lutheran Centenary (La.) Centenary (NJ) Central College Cornell Covenant Elizabethtown Ferrum Hardin-Simmons Haverford John Carroll Johns Hopkins Lakeland Maine Maritime Medgar Evers Millikin Millsaps Mount St. Vincent Mount Aloysius Muhlenberg New Paltz Newbury Ozarks Pacific Lutheran Pine Manor Pitt-Bradford Pitt-Greensburg Sewanee Shenandoah Staten Island SUNY Maritime Valley Forge Washington and Lee Wisconsin Lutheran Whittier
New Coach Tim Fusina Chris Dorsey Damian Pitts Joe Steinkamp Dave Schlabaugh Neal Young Britt Moore Tyler Sanborn Matt Brackett Patrick Doherty Pete Moran Josh Loeffler Sam Schroeder Dan McNeely Brian Nigro Mark Scherer Jimmy Smith James Mooney Will Cabrera Kevin Hopkins Keith Kenney Rich Fazzi Travis Carruthers Chad Murray Evan O’Brien Sean Brown Brody Jackson Michael Hedgepeth Adam Walsh T.J. Tibbs (int.) Michael Berkun DJ Damazo Chris McHugh Aaron Aanonsen Mark Jensen (Int.)
Brackett Returns to Hardin-Simmons
ABILENE, Texas — Hardin-Simmons University named Matt Brackett, who played four years for the Cowboys, as its new head men’s basketball coach. Brackett played four seasons with the Cowboys from 2004 through 2007. He was a three-year starter and two-year captain for Hardin-Simmons. Brackett replaces Craig Carse who retired from coaching at the end of last season. Carse coached 40 years, including 26 as a college head coach with stops at Division II programs West Virginia State and Montana State Billings. Carse went 152-96 in nine seasons at Hardin-Simmons and led the Cowboys to the NCAA Tournament sectional semifinals last season. Carse went 442-286 overall as a college coach. 3
Loeffler Succeeds Nelson at JHU
BALTIMORE, Md. – Johns Hopkins announced the appointment of Josh Loeffler as the University’s head men’s basketball coach. Loeffler succeeds Bill Nelson, who announced his retirement in March after 31 seasons with the Blue Jays. Loeffler inherits a team that went 16-10 and finished tied for second in the Centennial Conference last season. Hopkins has had 26 winning seasons, 10 NCAA Tournament appearances and three Centennial Conference Championships in the last 29 years. JHU has also produced a Jostens Trophy winner, two AllAmericans, seven NCAA Postgraduate Scholars, seven CoSIDA Academic All-Americans and 74 all-conference selections. Loeffler has spent the past four seasons as an assistant coach at Loyola Maryland. While with the Greyhounds, he was responsible for practice and game preparation, opponent scouting and recruiting. He recruited Andre Walker, the program’s first First Team All-Patriot League selection. Walker earned Second Team All-Patriot League honors in 2016 and was an All-Rookie Team selection in 2015. Prior to joining the Lafayette staff, Loeffler was the head coach at Stevens Institute of Technology for two seasons.
Smith Replaces Wise at Millsaps
JACKSON, Miss. — Former Division III coach Jimmy Smith has been named men’s basketball head coach at Millsaps College. Smith started his career as a head coach at Schreiner in 201213 where he helped the Mountaineers achieve their first winning record. Schreiner finished 15-12, 10-4 in the SCAC in 2013-14 and reached the SCAC tournament semifinal. After two seasons, Smith moved to Texas Lutheran where he helped the Bulldogs make a worst-to-first transformation. Texas Lutheran went 18-10, 11-3 in the SCAC and won the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament in Smith’s first season. He followed that up with a 21-7, 11-3 record and another NCAA Tournament appearance in 2015-16. Between Schreiner and Texas Lutheran, Smith went 65-44 over four seasons. Smith then left Texas Lutheran to join Jason Hooten’s staff at Division I Sam Houston State where he previously served as a graduate assistant. Smith replaces Tim Wise who stepped down in March to take a full-time administrative position at Millsaps.
Tibss Takes Over at Staten Island
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The College of Staten Island has announced the hire of T.J. Tibbs as its new head men’s basketball coach in an interim capacity. Tibbs takes over for long-tenured coach Tony Petosa, who stepped away from the program in July after a 27-year head coaching career. Tibbs was an assistant at Baruch College last year before accepting an interim role as head coach at the College of Mount Saint Vincent. The head coaching position at the College will undergo an intensive formal search at the conclusion of the season.
DIII News • October 2017
Newsroom • Kevin Hopkins, a player and coach at one of the most successful programs in Division III, is the new head men’s basketball coach at Muhlenberg College. Hopkins comes to Muhlenberg after five non-consecutive seasons as an assistant coach at Amherst College. • John Carroll didn’t need to look too far for its new basketball coach. Pete Moran, whose father Mike finished a 25-year tenure as the Blue Streaks’ head coach last spring, was named to the same post. Pete Moran had been an assistant coach on his father’s staff the past five seasons. • Whittier College men’s basketball coach Rock Carter retired and will be replaced by his assistant Mark Jensen on an interim basis through the 2017-18 season. Carter spent 27 seasons on the Poets’ coaching staff and spent the last 21 as their head coach during which he went 274-259. • The University of Ozarks announced Travis Carruthers as its new head men’s basketball coach, replacing David Ferrell. • Lakeland announced that assistant coach and alumnus Sam Schroeder will be the College’s next head men’s basketball coach, replacing Aaron Aanonson who moved to Wisconsin Lutheran. • Sewanee named Michael “Mick” Hedgepeth as its new head men’s basketball coach. He replaces Bradley Pierson, who resigned after one season. • Mount St. Vincent announced that James Mooney, who is the College’s career scoring leader in men’s basketball, will be its next head coach and associate athletic director. The men’s head coaching job was vacated when the College removed its head men’s and women’s coach and athletic director in January.
UVF Hires Damazo
PHOENIXVILLE, Pa. — The University of Valley Forge named DJ Damazo as its new head coach. Previously, Damazo was an assistant and head junior varsity coach at Eastern University last season. Damazo replaces John Mack, who won 286 games in 17 seasons at UVF and oversaw the expansion of the University’s athletic program and its move to NCAA Division III status.
PLU Hires Murray
TACOMA, Wash. — Pacific Lutheran University announced Chad Murray as the Lutes’ next head men’s basketball coach. He replaces Jim Dickerson, who retired at the end of last season. Murray coached Cornell to a 12-12 record, including a 10-8 mark in the Midwest Conference (MWC) and a MWC tournament semifinal appearance. Murray spent eight seasons at Cornell during which he went 71-121 with the Rams. His best season came in 2009-10 when the Rams went 15-11. Murray replaces Steve Dickerson who retired at the end of last season after going 116-153 in 11 seasons as the Lutes’ head coach.
Aanonsen Replaces Noon at WLU
MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Lakeland College men’s basketball coach Aaron Aanonsen left the Muskies to become the new head coach and associated athletic director at Wisconsin Lutheran. Aanosen replaces Skip Noon, who will focus on his duties as Wisconsin Lutheran’s athletic director. Noon served as Wisconsin Lutheran’s head coach for 25 years. He led the program when it transitioned to NCAA Division III in 1997-1998 and took the Warriors to the Division III NCAA Tournament in 2006. Noon went 318-342 in his tenure at Wisconsin Lutheran. Aanonsen comes to Wisconsin Lutheran from NACC rival Lakeland where he went 137-100 in nine seasons as the Muskies’ head coach. 4
DIII News • October 2017
Scherer Returns to CCIW
DECATUR, Ill. — Mark Scherer, who won 245 games in 17 seasons at Elmhurst, has been named the head coach at Millikin. He replaces Matt Nadelhoffer who resigned in February 2017 after going 37-113 in six seasons. Scherer is a proven winner in the CCIW posting 245 career wins, a conference title in 2001 and seven top two finishes in the conference while at Elmhurst. He led the Bluejays to two NCAA Tournament appearances, including the school’s first trip to the Sweet 16 in 2001. Scherer holds the Elmhurst record for most career wins as a head coach and best career winning percentage. Most recently, Scherer has served as the Director of Development at Illinois State.
Pitt-Bradford Hires Women’s Coach
Bradford, Pa. — Sean Brown, who coached the Pitt-Bradford Panthers’ women’s team for two seasons, will be their men’s head coach next season. Brown joined Pitt-Bradford as the women’s head coach before the 2015-16 season and went 34-21 seasons. Last season Brown coached AMCC Player of the Year and second-team All-Great Lakes selection Ali Rinfrette. The Panthers finished 16-11, 12-6 in the AMCC. Brown was previously an men’s assistant coach for eight seasons at his alma mater Frostburg State. “It’s an opportunity that came up and something I really had to think about,” Brown said. Brown replaces Britt Moore who left Pitt-Bradford to take the head coaching job at Elizabethtown following Bob Schlosser’s retirement.
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Conference Previews Northeast Region
DIIIN Preseason Top 25
Commonwealth Coast Conference
Top Teams: 1. Nichols 2. Endicott 3. Roger Williams Player of the Year: Marcos Echevarria, Nichols, Jr. Outlook: Nichols (24-6) led the conference in scoring last season with just under 90 points per game and should remain an offensive powerhouse with four starters returning. The Bison’s Marcos Echevarria (league MVP) and Deante Bruton (Rookie of the Year) led the Commonwealth Coast Conference in scoring last season, averaging 23.4 ppg and 21.3 ppg, respectively. Endicott (24-7) will have a new look with five new starters this campaign.
Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Albertus Magnus 2. Lasell 3. Johnson & Wales Player of the Year: Jaqhawn Walters, Albertus Magnus, Sr. Outlook: Albertus Magnus (23-5) was unbeatable at home last season and claimed the conference championship for the fifth time in six years. The Falcons have two starters and three double-digit scorers returning from last season’s squad that made an NCAA Tournament appearance before falling to Rochester (NY) in the opening round. Senior Jaqhawn Walters (20.3 ppg, 13.4 rpg) led the conference in rebounds last season and will look to defend his GNAC Player of the Year title. Lasell (19-9) and Johnson & Wales (15-12) are teams to look out for in the GNAC race.
Little East Conference
Top Teams: 1. E. Connecticut 2. Keene St. 3. UMass Dartmouth Player of the Year: Tarchee Brown, E. Connecticut State, Sr. Outlook: Eastern Connecticut State (21-9) has high expectations for the 2017-18 with three starters and two double-digit scorers returning from last year’s squad that won a conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round. The Warriors will look to senior guard Tarchee Brown on offense. Brown led the conference in scoring last season with 18.6 ppg and has earned All-Little East First Team honors three times. Keene State (22-10) made an Elite Eight appearance last season before falling to No. 1 Babson and will likely come out again this time around. UMass Dartmouth (17-10) is expected to be a factor in the race as well.
Massachusetts State Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Salem St. 2. Fitchburg St. 3. Bridgewater Player of the Year: Shaquan Murray, Salem St., Sr. Outlook: Salem State (17-11) lost only one starter and two roster playes from last year’s NCAA Tournament team. The Vikings welcome back eight players who started last season, led by first-team all-conference selection Shaquan Murray (15.8 ppg) and junior Alexander Santos (11.5 ppg). Fitchburg St. (15-11) has three starters back and must replace league MVP Jaleel Bell (22.2 ppg). 5
1. Augustana (Ill.) 2. Whitman 3. Marietta 4. Chris. Newport 5. Amherst 6. Emory 7. Wis. River Falls 8. Williams 9. Hanover 10. Ramapo 11. Wooster 12. Washington U. 13. Babson 14. St. John Fisher 15. Guilford 16. Scranton 17. Nebraska Wesleyan 18. Misericordia 19. Farmingdale State 20. Albertus Magnus 21. Lycoming 22. Tufts 23. Maryville 24. St. Thomas 25. Wis. Whitewater
Others to watch:
CMS Wartburg Swarthmore Hope Ohio Northern St. Vincent Morrisville St. Franklin & Marshall SUNY Canton Ohio Wesleyan Morrisville St.
New England Women’s and Men’s Conference
Top Teams: 1. Babson 2. MIT 3. WPI Player of the Year: Jake Ross, Springfield, So. Outlook: Babson (31-2) captured its first-ever national championship last season after a dominant campaign from start to finish. The Beavers have two starters returning to defend their title, including senior forward Nick Comenale, who averaged 16 ppg, and 5.4 rpg during the 2016-17 season. MIT (21-7) also represented the conference in the 2017 NCAA Tournament after edging out Babson for the NEWMAC Tournament title.
NESCAC
Top Teams: 1. Amherst 2. Williams 3. Tufts Player of the Year: Johnny McCarthy, Amherst, Sr. Outlook: Amherst (17-8) is looking to get back to postseason action after missing out last year. The Purple and White return two starters but welcome back their top three scorers. Jayde Dawson (19.1 ppg), Johnny McCarthy (14.2 ppg) and Michael Riopel (10.2 ppg) accounted for more than half of the team’s 79.4 ppg average. Williams (23-9) looks to build on its Final Four appearance (finished 3rd nationally). The Ephs return 14 of 16 players and four starters from last year, led by forward Kyle Scadlock (12.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg). Tufts (22-7) returns three starters, including top scorer Vincent Pace (13.9 ppg, 6.0 rpg) and should be a factor in the NESCAC race.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews New England Collegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. Becker 2. So. Vermont 3. Lesley Player of the Year: Samuel Durodola, Becker, Sr. Outlook: Southern Vermont (17-10) went 14-2 in conference play last season, but Becker (19-9) is the team to beat in the New England Collegiate Conference this year. Becker returns three starters from its NCAA Tournament team, including top scorer and NECC Player of the Year Samuel Durodola (18.9 ppg, 10.6 rpg).
North Atlantic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Husson 2. Castleton 3. Thomas Player of the Year: Jourdain Bell, Colby-Sawyer, Jr. Outlook: Husson (21-7) has four starters returning from last year’s 21-7 team that captured its fourth conference championship in five years. The Eagles will rely on Justin Martin to protect the rim as he led the team in rebounding (10.3 rpg).
East Region Empire Eight
Top Teams: 1. St. John Fisher 2. Stevens 3. Utica Player of the Year: Tyler Stenglein, Nazareth, Sr. Outlook: St. John Fisher (23-6) led the conference in rebounds last season and hopes to dominate the glass again with four starters returning in 2017-18. The Cardinals defeated Stevens in the conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round before falling to Tufts. Nazareth is a team to look out for as leading scorer Tyler Stenglein returns for his senior campaign (20.2 ppg, 7.6 rpg). Utica’s Ivan Iton will also pose a threat on the defensive end (10.1 rpg).
Liberty League
Top Teams: 1. Skidmore 2. St. Lawrence 3. Union Player of the Year: Edvinas Rupkus, Skidmore, Jr. Outlook: Skidmore (20-8), St. Lawrence (20-7) and Union (17-11) all represented the Liberty League in the 2017 NCAA Tournament. Skidmore dominated the conference for most of the season, but Union showed strength late in the season by winning the conference championship for the first time since 2005. Two full-time starters will return for Skidmore this season, including senior Edvinas Rupkus (20.7 ppg, 7.4 rpg).
North Eastern Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Morrisville St. 2. Wells 3. Lancaster Bible Player of the Year: Rich Ross, Wells, Jr.. Outlook: Defending champion Morrisville St. (22-7) welcomes back four starters from its NCAA Tournamnent team. Super sophomore Kevin Dennis (19.2 ppg, 10.8 rpg) ranked fourth in the league in scoring and tops in rebounding last season and should be a key for the Mustangs. Watch for Wells and Lancaster Bible to challenge in the NEAC race this year as each returns an all-conference performer. 6
SUNYAC
Top Teams: 1. Oswego St. 2. Oneonta 3. Brockport Player of the Year: Justin Cooper, Cortland, Jr. Outlook: Oswego State returns two starters from last season’s 21-7 team that defeated Oneonta (17-11) in the conference championship to win its third title in six years. The Lakers also made their third-straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Jamir Ferebee (12.5 ppg) and Ian Schupp (12.3 ppg) will lead the backcourt for the Lakers as they look to continue their conference dominance. Brockport (19-7) and Oneonta (17-11) are teams expected to challenge in the SUNYAC race.
South Region
American Southwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. Hardin-Simmons 2. LeTourneau 3. Concordia Player of the Year: Khyce Randall, Howard Payne, Sr. Outlook: Despite losing seven seniors and no returning starters, Hardin-Simmons (24-7) still has enough talent on the roster to make a run at the league title. The Cowboys set a new school record for wins last season and made a deep run in the NCAA Tournament before falling to No. 1 Whitman in the Round of 16. Senior guard Caleb Spoon started in 17 games for the Cowboys last season and leads all returners in scoring (11.3 ppg, 2.3 rpg). LeTourneau (22-6) and Concordia Texas (19-8) should challenge Hardin Simmons for the top spot in the conference. Mary Hardin-Baylor (16-10) is a team to watch.
Old Dominion Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Guilford 2. Randolph-Macon 3. Emory & Henry Player of the Year: Clayton Murtha, Washington & Lee, Sr. Outlook: Guilford returns three starters from last season’s 21-6 team that defeated Emory & Henry (20-8) in the conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round. The Quakers’ two leading scorers, Carson Long (14.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg) and Alston Thompson (11 ppg, 7.7 rpg), are expected to put up big numbers this year after breakout performances last season. Emory & Henry (20-8) and Randolph-Macon (17-9) are teams to look out for.
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Texas Lutheran 2. Schreiner 3. Colorado College Player of the Year: John Hatch, Colo. College, Sr. Outlook: Texas Lutheran (19-10) won a third consecutive SCAC Tournament title last season as the the Bulldogs defeated Schreiner in the conference championship game and earned their third-straight trip to the Big Dance. The Bulldogs have two returning starters and will look for players to step up on offense as the team’s three leading scorers graduated. Colorado College’s John Hatch, (17.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg) is the conference’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year and is one to keep an eye on.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Southern Athletics Association
Top Teams: 1. Rhodes 2. Centre 3. Birmingham Southern Player of the Year: Tucker Sine, Centre, Jr. Outlook: Rhodes (17-11) has two starters and two double-digit scorers returning from last season’s squad that won the first conference tournament championship in program history and appeared in the NCAA Tournament. The Lynx will look to leading scorer Anesu Nyawata (13.7 ppg) to anchor the offense.
USA South Atlantic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Maryville 2. Methodist 3. Averett Player of the Year: Adrian Moore, N.C. Wesleyan, Sr. Outlook: Maryville College (20-7) returns more than 80 percfent of its points and rebounding. Four starters and nine juniors return and are led by second-team all-conference Calvin Songster (13.6 ppg) and leading rebounder Colt Nokes (11.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg).
Mid. Atlantic Region
Capital Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Chris. Newport 2. York 3. Salisburg Player of the Year: Marcus Carter, Chris. Newport, Sr. Outlook: Christopher Newport (27-3) returns just one starter from last year’s Sweet 16 team and must replace three of its top five starters. All-American Marcus Carter (12.8 ppg, 6.5 rpg) is one of the nation’s top players in the country and is expected to carry CNU back to postseason action. Aaron McFarland (10.7 ppg) will contribute to the offensive effort for the Captians. York (17-10) is expected to compete in the CAC as it lost just two players from last year’s roster. All five starters are back for the Spartans, led by top scorere Matt Scamuffo (16 ppg) and Blayde Reich (13.7 ppg).
Centennial Conference
Top Teams: 1. Swarthmore 2. Franklin & Marshall 3. Dickinson Player of the Year: Cam Wiley, Swarthmore, Jr. Outlook: Look for a tight race in the Centennial Conference this year. Swarthmore (23-6) is coming off a program-best 23 wins in 2016-17 and its first-ever conference championship. The Garnet return two starters this year, led by top scorer and league MVP Cam Wiley (18.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg). Franklin & Marshall (188) is also poised to fight for the top spot in the conference with five starters returning, led by senior Brandon Federici, who led the conference in scoring last season (19.9 ppg).
Colonial States Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Neumann 2. Cabrini 3. Gwynedd Mercy Player of the Year: Tyheim Monroe, Cabrini, Sr. Outlook: Neumann returns one starter and two double-digit scorers from last year’s 25-3 team that nearly went undefeated in conference play and dominated Gwynedd Mercy in the 7
conference championship. Neumann and Cabrini (19-8) represented the Colonial Conference in the 2017 NCAA Tournament. Cabrini’s Tyheim Monroe led the league in scoring and rebounding last season (21.8 ppg, 15.8 rpg), earning Colonial’s Player of the Year title.
Landmark Conference
Top Teams: 1. Scranton 2. Moravian 3. Susquehanna Player of the Year: Jay Howard, Catholic, Sr. Outlook: Scranton (22-7) secured its seventh conference championship in 10 years last season and looks to defend the title with four returning starters on the roster for the 2017-18 season. Senior Ethan Danzig (12.4 ppg) is the leading returning scorer for the Royals. Moravian (19-9) has two starters returning. Susquehanna (23-6) also left its mark last season, earning a trip to the Sweet 16 and has two starters back. The River Hawks will need to replace their leading scorer.
Middle Atlantic Conference
Commonwealth Top Teams: 1. Lycoming 2. Widener 3. Lebanon Valley Player of the Year: Sam Light, Lebanon Valley, Sr. Outlook: Lycoming (24-5) welcomes back three starters and must replace two of its top three scorers this year. Chris Wallace (12.1 ppg) is the top returning scorer for the Warriors and will get help from Alex Newbold (8.4 ppg) as the team pursues another league scoring crown (81.8). Widener (16-10) has three starters and its top two scorers back in the mix. Sardayah Sambo (15.6 ppg) and Sam Smith (14.6 ppg) are a dynamic scoring duo for the Pride. Lebanon Valley (16-11) will be a factor with the league’s top scorer (Sam Light, 22.4 ppg) and Andy Orr (18.8 ppg) leading the way. Freedom Top Teams: 1. Misericorida 2. Del. Valley 3. Eastern Player of the Year: Jason Kenny, Misericorida, Jr. Outlook: Misericordia (20-8) has high expectations with its three top scorers and three starters back from its NCAA Tournament team. Leading scorer Jason Kenny (20.5 ppg) teams with Tony Harding (14.6 ppg) and Tre Fields (14.1 ppg) to account for more than half of the team’s 85.21 ppg output.
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DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Atlantic Region CUNYAC
Top Teams: 1. Staten Island 2. CCNY 3. Lehman Player of the Year: Chimaechi Ekekeugbor, Baruch, Sr. Outlook: After completing a perfect conference record in 2016-17, defending champion Staten Island (21-7) returns three starters to the lineup. The Dolphins will look to senior Kevon Murphy (13.8 ppg, 6.9 rpg) to be the offensive catalyst. CCNY (17-10) and Lehman (17-10) will likely battle for the top spot, but Baruch (18-10) is a team to watch as it returns the league’s top scorer in Chimaechi Ekekeugbor (19 ppg).
New Jersey Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Ramapo 2. TCNJ 3. NJ City Player of the Year: Thomas Bonacum, Ramapo, Sr. Outlook: Reigning conference champion Ramapo (26-3) has high expectations with four starters and its top two scorers returning to the court from last year’s NCAA Tournament squad. Senior Thomas Bonacum (17.1, 6.5) earned the conference’s Player of the Year title last season. New Jersey City also represented the conference in the NCAA Tournament and is a team to look out for as is The College of New Jersey.
Skyline Conference
Top Teams: 1. Farmingdale St. 2. Old Westbury 3. Sage Player of the Year: Patrick MacDonald, Maritime, Sr. Outlook: Defending champion Farmingdale State (20-8) is looking to build on its strong 2016-17 campaign. Four starters and four double-digit scorers are returning for the Rams. George Riefenstahl (12.4 ppg, 9.5 rpg) anchored the defense that ranked eighth nationally in rebounds per game and 10th nationally in total rebounds last year.
Great Lakes Region
Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. Penn St. Behrend 2. La Roche 3. Medaille Player of the Year: Jalen Smith, Hilbert, Sr. Outlook: Penn St. Behrend (21-8) returns four starters from last season and lost only two players from its roster. Andy Niland (13.3 ppg) and Dan Wanker (11.5 ppg) carry the scoring load for the Lions. La Roche and Medaille are teams to watch in the AMCC race.
Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. Hope 2. Calvin 3. Trine Player of the Year: Dante Hawkins, Hope, Sr. Outlook: Hope (23-11) returns two starters from last season’s team that finished 13-1 in conference play. The Flying Dutchmen bounced back from a loss in the conference championship with a deep run to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. Hope’s Dante Hawkins finished top 5 in the conference for 8
scoring last season with 16.5 ppg. Calvin (17-11) captured the conference championship last season and is a team to watch with four starters back in the mix. Junior wing Michael Wilks (12.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg) leads the Knights.
North Coast Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Wooster 2. Ohio Wesleyan 3. Denison Player of the Year: Nate Axelrod, Ohio Wesleyan, Sr. Outlook: Ohio Wesleyan (21-7), Denison (22-5) and Wooster (21-8) fought head-to-head all season for the top spot in the conference. Wooster ultimately won the conference championship, earning its first NCAA Tournament berth since 2014. Wooster will return two full-time starters and three double-digit scorers from last season’s team that led the North Coast Conference in scoring offense, averaging 84.9 points per game. Ohio Wesleyan has a weapon in senior Nate Axelrod who is the reigning North Coast Player of the Year.
Ohio Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Marietta 2. John Carroll 3. Ohio Northern Player of the Year: Keith Richrdson, Marietta, Sr. Outlook: Marietta (26-5) has momentum heading into the season with four starters and and three double-digit scorers returning from last year’s squad that went 16-2 in conference play, earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the third-straight year and made it to the Sweet 16. Marietta will rely on Keith Richardson (15 ppg) to lead the offense. John Carroll and Ohio Northern are expected to be top challengers.
President’s Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Vincent 2. Thomas More 3. Thiel Player of the Year: Tyreik Burton, Thiel, Sr. Outlook: Saint Vincent (21-7) lost only one player from last year and welcomes back four starters this campaign. Leading scorer Matt D’Amico (12.6 ppg) and Tom Kromka (11.9 ppg) lead the offensive attack for the Bearcats. Defending league champion Thomas More (22-7) looks to get back to NCAA Tournament action with all five starters back in the fold. Damion King (14.1 ppg) is the top returning scorer for the Saints.
Midwest Region
College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin
Top Teams: 1. Augustana 2. North Central 3. North Park Player of the Year: Jordan Robinson, North Park, Sr. Outlook: Augustana (24-9) returns four starters and several key reserves from last year’s NCAA Division III national runnerup squad, led by junior Chrishawn Orange (14.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg), who earned all-conference, all-district, and all-region honors as a sophomore. Senior Dylan Sortillo (12.5 ppg, 3.9 rpg) —a second team All-CCIW selection—also returns. North Central (18-11) lost only one player and welcomes back four starters this year. Top scorer and first-team all-league selection Alex
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Sorenson (17.8 ppg, 9.2 rpg) provides offensive spark and rebounding while Erwin Henry (13.2 ppg) and Aiden Chang (10.6 ppg) add scoring support for the Cardinals. North Park (18-8) will compete behind league MVP Jordan Robinson.
Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Hanover 2. Mt. St. Joseph 3. Anderson Player of the Year: Wes McKinney, Hanover, Sr. Outlook: Hanover (26-4) has high expectations with four starters returning from last year’s historic team that dominated the Heartland conference and made a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The Panthers stunned No. 18 Hope in the Sweet 16 with a buzzer beater that led to the first Elite Eight appearance in program history. Hanover will rely on the conference’s reigning Player of the Year, Wes McKinney, who led the conference in rebounds (8.4 rpg) and double-doubles (11). Mount St. Joseph (20-7) put up a fight against Hanover in the conference championship game and will likely come out strong again this season.
Midwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Norbert 2. Lake Forest 3. Cornell Player of the Year: D.J. DeValk, St. Norbert, Sr. Outlook: St. Norbert (19-5) looks to move up in the league standings with five players returning who started at some point last year. Leading scorer D.J. DeValk (15.2 ppg) tops the scoring attack for the Knights and should get help from Mitchell Reinthaler (12.1 ppg). Lake Forest (14-11) and Cornell (11-12) could be factors in the MAC race. Ripon (20-6) begins life without Ty Sabin and his 30.7 points per game, but the Red Hawks still will play a role in the standings.
Northern Athletics Conference
Top Teams: 1. Benedictine 2. Aurora 3. Concordia Player of the Year: Ty Carlson, Aurora, Jr. Outlook: Following the best two-year run in school history, Benedictine (23-5) will need upperclassmen to step into a leadership role following the graduation of three all-conference performers. The team has reached the NCAA Tournament in each of the past two campaigns with a runner-up finish in 2016 and will have another tough schedule to prep for the long conference slate. Just one starter is back for the Eagles, and will look to Braydon Olson (14 ppg) to step into a starting roles this campaign.
St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Westminster 2. Greenville 3. Eureka Player of the Year: Shea Feehan, Eureka, Jr. Outlook: Westminster (19-9) brings back a talented group of returners, including three starters, who have been to back-toback NCAA tournaments. The group will look to newcomers to fill the post positions, but the 1-3 positions are well-handled 9
by seasoned veterans who put up a lot of points. Senior guard Jimmy Villalobos (12.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg) and backcourt mate Carter Wands (6.3 ppg, 3.1 apg) lead the scoring effort for the Blue Jays. Greenville (21-6) returns two starters this season and must replace eight seniors and its top six scorers. Kieshaun Young-Jones (8.9 ppg) and Johari Dix (8.8 ppg) are expected to increase their output this season.
West Region
Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Neb. Wesleyan 2. Wartburg 3. Loras Player of the Year: Cooper Cook, Neb. Wesleyan, Jr. Outlook: Nebraska Wesleyan (18-8) returns four starters and its top six scorers from last year’s IIAC regular season championship team. The Prairie Wolves welcome back IIAC MVP Cooper Cook, and West Region Rookie of the Year Nate Schimonitz (19.1 ppg, 4.9 rpg). NWU is aiming for a postseason berth in its second season as a full-time member of NCAA III. IIAC Tournament champion Wartburg (21-10) has two starters back from its Sweet 16 team. Jaran Sabus (13.5 ppg) could slide into a starting role this year and teams with Nate Woeste (11.8 ppg) to provide the bulk of the scoring load for the Knights. Loras will be a factor in the league race as well.
Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Thomas 2. Bethel 3. St. John’s Player of the Year: David Stokman, St. John’s, Jr. Outlook: St. Thomas (19-8) graduated four seniors, led by All-American Grant Shaeffer. The Tommies do return nearly 65 percent of their scoring and 55 percent of their rebounding from last year’s NCAA Tournament team. Two starters are back for UST, led by senior forward Ryan Boll (14.3 ppg) and reserve Michael Hannon (12.8 ppg). Bethel (21-7) earned a share of its first MIAC regular season championship and was crowned playoff champions for the second time in program history before losing to No. 4-UW-River Falls in a NCAA Tournament double-OT heartbreaker. The Royals return three starters, led by senior guard Bridgeport Tusler (15 ppg, 4.3 rpg).
Northwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. Whitman 2. Whitworth 3. Linfield Player of the Year: Tim Howell, Whitman, Sr. Outlook: The Whitman Blues (31-1) had a perfect season until they squared off against Babson in the NCAA Final Four. The Blues hope to build on last season’s historic run as they return all five starters and five double-digit scorers. League MVP Tim Howell is poised for a dominant senior campaign after leading the conference in scoring last season (20.4 ppg). Joey Hewitt and Jase Harrison add depth to Whitman’s backcourt and are efficient scorers. Whitworth (23-5) also represented the Northwest Conference in the NCAA Tournament last season and should be a factor along with Linfield.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews West, Cont.
Southern California Intercollegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. CMS 2. Cal Lutheran 3. La Verne Player of the Year: Michael Scarlett, CMS, Sr. Outlook: Claremont-Mudd-Scripps’ Michael Scarlett returns for his senior season after a standout 2016-17 campaign that earned him the SCIAC Player of the Year award. Scarlett led the Stags (23-5) to a 10-0 start in conference play and averaged a team-high 19.3 points per game, good for the second highest mark in the conference. With three full-time starters and two double-digit scorers returning, the Stags hope to improve on last seasons run to the NCAA Second Round. Cal Lutheran fared well against conference opponents last season, posting a 12-4 record in SCIAC play.
Upper Midwest Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Scholastica 2. Northwestern 3. Bethany Lutheran Player of the Year: CD Douglas, Minn. Morris, Sr. Outlook: The College of St. Scholastica (17-10) returns four starters and most of its roster from last year’s team that reached the UMAC Tournament title game for the second straight season. Brandon Newman (16.4 ppg) is among three double-figure scorers back for the Saints. Northwestern and Bethany Lutheran should be competitive in the UMAC race.
Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. River Falls 2. Whitewater 3. Eau Claire Player of the Year: Alex Herink, Rivers Falls, Sr. Outlook: The River Falls Falcons (25-4) will defend their league title behind All-American Alex Herink (15.9 ppg, 5.9 rpgh) and returns 10 of their top 13 players who played significant minutes in 2016-17. One transfer and five freshman will join the Falcons for 2017-18. One year after coming within one basket of defeating eventual national runner-up Augustana (Ill.) in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, UW-Whitewater (22-7) graduated only one starter and one key reserve. Second-team all-region and first team all-conference selection Chris Jones (17.9 ppg, 2.6 rpg) leads the backcourt, and the honorable mention All-WIAC trio of Scotty Tyler (14.4 ppg, 6.0 rpg), Derek Rongstad (11.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg) Demetrius Woodley (8.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg) lead the front court.
University Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. Emory 2. Washington 3. Rochester Player of the Year: Adam Gigax, Emory, Sr. Outlook: Emory (19-8) has high expectations with four starters back this season. Leading scorer Adam Gigax (18.3 ppg) and Christopher Avant (11.6 ppg) power the Eagles’ offense. WashU returns six of its eight top scorers from a year ago when the Bears posted a 21-6 overall mark and won its 14th UAA title in school history. WashU also advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Senior forward Andrew Sanders (16.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg) is the go-to offensive option for the Bears. Rochester (24-5) will have a new look as it replaces its three top scorers from last year who accounted for more than half of its offense. Jacob Wittig (8.8 ppg) should increase his scoring output this year.
American Collegiate Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. SUNY Canton 2. Pine Manor 3. Valley Forge Player of the Year: Taverick Roberson, Pine Manor, Sr. Outlook: SUNY Canton (20-9) is expected to be the top team in the new ACAA this year. The Kangaroos return two starters from last year, led by junior guard Adrian Williams (12.3 ppg). Canton must replace its top two scorers from last season who accounted for more than 40 points per game. Pine Manor (16-10) will challenge this season with its entire roster back from last year and a new head coach. Leading scorer Taverick Roberson (19.6 ppg) is the leading scorer for the Gators.
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DIII News • October 2017
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DIIIN Top 24 Selections Nate Axelrod Jordan Richardson Marcus Carter Tim Howell Thomas Bonacum Tyheim Monroe Alex Herink Michael Scarlett Jaqhawn Walters Cooper Cook Samuel Durodola Rich Ross Tyreik Burton Cam Wiley Wes McKinney Marcos Echevarria Alex Gigax Sam Light Tarchee Brown Shea Feehan Jake Ross Adrian Moore Dante Hawkins Jay Howard
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2017-18 Preseason All-Americans
Honorable Mention
Andy Orr, Lebanon Valley, Sr. Kevin Dennis, Morrisville St., So. Brandon Federici, Frank & Marsh, Sr. JJ Kukuram Mount Union, Sr. Jason Kenny, Misericorida, Jr. Chimaechi Ekekeugbor, Baruch, Sr. Shaquan Murray, Salem St., Sr. Keith Richrdson, Marietta, Sr. Johnny McCarthy, Amherst, Sr. Tyler Stenglein, Nazareth, Sr. Jourdain Bell, Colby-Sawyer, Jr. Clayton Murtha, Washington & Lee, Sr. Edvinas Rupkus, Skidmore, Jr. Khyce Randall, Howard Payne, Sr. Justin Cooper, Cortland, Jr. Andrew Sanders, WashU, Sr. John Hatch, Colo. College, Sr. Ty Carlson, Aurora, Jr. CD Douglas, Minn. Morris, Sr. Patrick MacDonald, Maritime, Sr. Jalen Smith, Hilbert, Sr. Taverick Roberson, Pine Manor, Sr. Trevor Lucas, Anderson, Sr. D.J. DeValk, St. Norbert, Sr. David Stokman, St. John’s (MN), Jr. Chris Jones, Wis. Whitewater, Sr. Tucker Sine, Centre, Jr. Jason Kenny, Misericordia, Jr. Michael Gutierrez, Macalester, Jr. Rashaan Spencer, Centenary (NJ), Sr.
DIII News • October 2017
October/November 2017
Player of the Year
Preseason Preview 2017-18!
Top 25 Predictions Top 10 Teams: 1. Augustana (Ill.) 2. Whitman 3. Marietta 4. Chris. Newport 5. Amherst 6. Emory 7. Wis. River Falls 8. Williams 9. Hanover 10. Ramapo Page 5
Nate Axelrod, OhioWesleyan
1993
25th Season 2018
Twitter: @SmallColHoops www.smallcollegehoops.com
Coaching Changes Page 3 Conference Previews 2017 All-American Teams
Page 5 Page 12
Editorial We Made It: 25 Years Editor & Publisher Gary S. Rubin ■
Art Director Steve Fisher ■
Contributing Editor Sydney Rubin Business & Editorial Office GSR Communications Email: [email protected] DIII News is published 14 times from October to April by GSR Communications. Subscription price: $52 per season. © Copyright 2017 by GSR Communications. POSTMASTER: Send all change of address requests to above address. Printed in USA www.smallcollegehoops.com Twitter: SmallColHoops
Publishing Schedule DIII News will publish 14 editions this season. Here’s a schedule to help you keep track of all the issues:
● ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍
Preseason Preview December 6 December 13 December 20 January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 February 1 February 7 February 14 February 21 March 1 Postseason Review
Welcome to the 2017-18 DIII News Preseason Preview issue! We are excited about this upcoming season and glad to have you join us for what should be a terrific campaign. This is a milestone season for this publication: it’s our 25th season of covering Division III men’s basketball. In 1993, we started with an idea, took a chance, and now here we are. A quarter of a century has gone by pretty quickly, with lots of life changes along the way. Players we covered years ago have blossomed into coaches and readers. Coaches have come and gone. New schools have entered Division III. The only constant has been change, plus the fact that you have continued to support our efforts. That is the only reason we are still able to bring you the information that you need. This past offseason, I read two good books that both related to college basketball. The first was Shoe Dog, the memoir from Nike founder Phil Knight. Without question, Nike altered the college basketball landscape and it was interesting to read how Knight took his own idea and grew it into one of the world’s largest companies. Of course, I read the book before the recent bribery scandal that is rocking college basketball and it’s not hard to understand how we got here. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the months to come. The second book was Coach Wooden and Me by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It’s a touching story of a coach and his player and how their friendship lasted 50 years. If you’re a coach, I highly recommend this book and the lessons it teaches of the impact you have on your student athletes. Now, to the upcoming season. To begin, you will see a number of new coaches listed on the next page. This was an active off-season for coaching moves and we wish all the new floor generals luck this campaign. The publishing schedule will be familiar to our readers. Four years ago we expanded the schedule to 14 issues a season and it was well received. We’re sticking to that again this year after the tremendous 2
DIII News • October 2017
feedback. Basically, you’ll hear from us weekly in January and February during the heart of the season and the run-up to the NCAA tournament announcement. As always, the process of compiling the Top 25 was a challenge. The No. 1 ranking this preseason goes to national runner-up Augustana (Ill.), which returns four starters from last year’s team that fell to Babson in the title game. A number of teams, including Whitman, Marietta, Christopher Newport and Amherst are close behind for the top spot so it should be a competitive season. O h i o We s l e y a n s e n i o r N a t e Axelrod headlines the Top 24 AllAmericans listed on page 12 as our Preseason Player of the Year. I want to thank our corporate partner for being part of our publication. SNA Sports is back as the title sponsor of the DIII News Coach of the Year and the Coach of the Month award as well. The company is a big supporter of small college basketball and was great to work with last year for our biggest award. I hope you call on SNA Sports when your equipment needs arise and thank them for their support of Division III basketball. Be sure to visit out our web site, www. smallcollegehoops.com, and follow us on Twitter (@SmallColHoops) for updates between our regular issues. Thanks for your support and we’ll see you in December with the next edition.
Gary Rubin Editor & Publisher
Newsroom 2017 Division III Coaching Changes School Cal Lutheran Centenary (La.) Centenary (NJ) Central College Cornell Covenant Elizabethtown Ferrum Hardin-Simmons Haverford John Carroll Johns Hopkins Lakeland Maine Maritime Medgar Evers Millikin Millsaps Mount St. Vincent Mount Aloysius Muhlenberg New Paltz Newbury Ozarks Pacific Lutheran Pine Manor Pitt-Bradford Pitt-Greensburg Sewanee Shenandoah Staten Island SUNY Maritime Valley Forge Washington and Lee Wisconsin Lutheran Whittier
New Coach Tim Fusina Chris Dorsey Damian Pitts Joe Steinkamp Dave Schlabaugh Neal Young Britt Moore Tyler Sanborn Matt Brackett Patrick Doherty Pete Moran Josh Loeffler Sam Schroeder Dan McNeely Brian Nigro Mark Scherer Jimmy Smith James Mooney Will Cabrera Kevin Hopkins Keith Kenney Rich Fazzi Travis Carruthers Chad Murray Evan O’Brien Sean Brown Brody Jackson Michael Hedgepeth Adam Walsh T.J. Tibbs (int.) Michael Berkun DJ Damazo Chris McHugh Aaron Aanonsen Mark Jensen (Int.)
Brackett Returns to Hardin-Simmons
ABILENE, Texas — Hardin-Simmons University named Matt Brackett, who played four years for the Cowboys, as its new head men’s basketball coach. Brackett played four seasons with the Cowboys from 2004 through 2007. He was a three-year starter and two-year captain for Hardin-Simmons. Brackett replaces Craig Carse who retired from coaching at the end of last season. Carse coached 40 years, including 26 as a college head coach with stops at Division II programs West Virginia State and Montana State Billings. Carse went 152-96 in nine seasons at Hardin-Simmons and led the Cowboys to the NCAA Tournament sectional semifinals last season. Carse went 442-286 overall as a college coach. 3
Loeffler Succeeds Nelson at JHU
BALTIMORE, Md. – Johns Hopkins announced the appointment of Josh Loeffler as the University’s head men’s basketball coach. Loeffler succeeds Bill Nelson, who announced his retirement in March after 31 seasons with the Blue Jays. Loeffler inherits a team that went 16-10 and finished tied for second in the Centennial Conference last season. Hopkins has had 26 winning seasons, 10 NCAA Tournament appearances and three Centennial Conference Championships in the last 29 years. JHU has also produced a Jostens Trophy winner, two AllAmericans, seven NCAA Postgraduate Scholars, seven CoSIDA Academic All-Americans and 74 all-conference selections. Loeffler has spent the past four seasons as an assistant coach at Loyola Maryland. While with the Greyhounds, he was responsible for practice and game preparation, opponent scouting and recruiting. He recruited Andre Walker, the program’s first First Team All-Patriot League selection. Walker earned Second Team All-Patriot League honors in 2016 and was an All-Rookie Team selection in 2015. Prior to joining the Lafayette staff, Loeffler was the head coach at Stevens Institute of Technology for two seasons.
Smith Replaces Wise at Millsaps
JACKSON, Miss. — Former Division III coach Jimmy Smith has been named men’s basketball head coach at Millsaps College. Smith started his career as a head coach at Schreiner in 201213 where he helped the Mountaineers achieve their first winning record. Schreiner finished 15-12, 10-4 in the SCAC in 2013-14 and reached the SCAC tournament semifinal. After two seasons, Smith moved to Texas Lutheran where he helped the Bulldogs make a worst-to-first transformation. Texas Lutheran went 18-10, 11-3 in the SCAC and won the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament in Smith’s first season. He followed that up with a 21-7, 11-3 record and another NCAA Tournament appearance in 2015-16. Between Schreiner and Texas Lutheran, Smith went 65-44 over four seasons. Smith then left Texas Lutheran to join Jason Hooten’s staff at Division I Sam Houston State where he previously served as a graduate assistant. Smith replaces Tim Wise who stepped down in March to take a full-time administrative position at Millsaps.
Tibss Takes Over at Staten Island
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The College of Staten Island has announced the hire of T.J. Tibbs as its new head men’s basketball coach in an interim capacity. Tibbs takes over for long-tenured coach Tony Petosa, who stepped away from the program in July after a 27-year head coaching career. Tibbs was an assistant at Baruch College last year before accepting an interim role as head coach at the College of Mount Saint Vincent. The head coaching position at the College will undergo an intensive formal search at the conclusion of the season.
DIII News • October 2017
Newsroom • Kevin Hopkins, a player and coach at one of the most successful programs in Division III, is the new head men’s basketball coach at Muhlenberg College. Hopkins comes to Muhlenberg after five non-consecutive seasons as an assistant coach at Amherst College. • John Carroll didn’t need to look too far for its new basketball coach. Pete Moran, whose father Mike finished a 25-year tenure as the Blue Streaks’ head coach last spring, was named to the same post. Pete Moran had been an assistant coach on his father’s staff the past five seasons. • Whittier College men’s basketball coach Rock Carter retired and will be replaced by his assistant Mark Jensen on an interim basis through the 2017-18 season. Carter spent 27 seasons on the Poets’ coaching staff and spent the last 21 as their head coach during which he went 274-259. • The University of Ozarks announced Travis Carruthers as its new head men’s basketball coach, replacing David Ferrell. • Lakeland announced that assistant coach and alumnus Sam Schroeder will be the College’s next head men’s basketball coach, replacing Aaron Aanonson who moved to Wisconsin Lutheran. • Sewanee named Michael “Mick” Hedgepeth as its new head men’s basketball coach. He replaces Bradley Pierson, who resigned after one season. • Mount St. Vincent announced that James Mooney, who is the College’s career scoring leader in men’s basketball, will be its next head coach and associate athletic director. The men’s head coaching job was vacated when the College removed its head men’s and women’s coach and athletic director in January.
UVF Hires Damazo
PHOENIXVILLE, Pa. — The University of Valley Forge named DJ Damazo as its new head coach. Previously, Damazo was an assistant and head junior varsity coach at Eastern University last season. Damazo replaces John Mack, who won 286 games in 17 seasons at UVF and oversaw the expansion of the University’s athletic program and its move to NCAA Division III status.
PLU Hires Murray
TACOMA, Wash. — Pacific Lutheran University announced Chad Murray as the Lutes’ next head men’s basketball coach. He replaces Jim Dickerson, who retired at the end of last season. Murray coached Cornell to a 12-12 record, including a 10-8 mark in the Midwest Conference (MWC) and a MWC tournament semifinal appearance. Murray spent eight seasons at Cornell during which he went 71-121 with the Rams. His best season came in 2009-10 when the Rams went 15-11. Murray replaces Steve Dickerson who retired at the end of last season after going 116-153 in 11 seasons as the Lutes’ head coach.
Aanonsen Replaces Noon at WLU
MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Lakeland College men’s basketball coach Aaron Aanonsen left the Muskies to become the new head coach and associated athletic director at Wisconsin Lutheran. Aanosen replaces Skip Noon, who will focus on his duties as Wisconsin Lutheran’s athletic director. Noon served as Wisconsin Lutheran’s head coach for 25 years. He led the program when it transitioned to NCAA Division III in 1997-1998 and took the Warriors to the Division III NCAA Tournament in 2006. Noon went 318-342 in his tenure at Wisconsin Lutheran. Aanonsen comes to Wisconsin Lutheran from NACC rival Lakeland where he went 137-100 in nine seasons as the Muskies’ head coach. 4
DIII News • October 2017
Scherer Returns to CCIW
DECATUR, Ill. — Mark Scherer, who won 245 games in 17 seasons at Elmhurst, has been named the head coach at Millikin. He replaces Matt Nadelhoffer who resigned in February 2017 after going 37-113 in six seasons. Scherer is a proven winner in the CCIW posting 245 career wins, a conference title in 2001 and seven top two finishes in the conference while at Elmhurst. He led the Bluejays to two NCAA Tournament appearances, including the school’s first trip to the Sweet 16 in 2001. Scherer holds the Elmhurst record for most career wins as a head coach and best career winning percentage. Most recently, Scherer has served as the Director of Development at Illinois State.
Pitt-Bradford Hires Women’s Coach
Bradford, Pa. — Sean Brown, who coached the Pitt-Bradford Panthers’ women’s team for two seasons, will be their men’s head coach next season. Brown joined Pitt-Bradford as the women’s head coach before the 2015-16 season and went 34-21 seasons. Last season Brown coached AMCC Player of the Year and second-team All-Great Lakes selection Ali Rinfrette. The Panthers finished 16-11, 12-6 in the AMCC. Brown was previously an men’s assistant coach for eight seasons at his alma mater Frostburg State. “It’s an opportunity that came up and something I really had to think about,” Brown said. Brown replaces Britt Moore who left Pitt-Bradford to take the head coaching job at Elizabethtown following Bob Schlosser’s retirement.
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Conference Previews Northeast Region
DIIIN Preseason Top 25
Commonwealth Coast Conference
Top Teams: 1. Nichols 2. Endicott 3. Roger Williams Player of the Year: Marcos Echevarria, Nichols, Jr. Outlook: Nichols (24-6) led the conference in scoring last season with just under 90 points per game and should remain an offensive powerhouse with four starters returning. The Bison’s Marcos Echevarria (league MVP) and Deante Bruton (Rookie of the Year) led the Commonwealth Coast Conference in scoring last season, averaging 23.4 ppg and 21.3 ppg, respectively. Endicott (24-7) will have a new look with five new starters this campaign.
Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Albertus Magnus 2. Lasell 3. Johnson & Wales Player of the Year: Jaqhawn Walters, Albertus Magnus, Sr. Outlook: Albertus Magnus (23-5) was unbeatable at home last season and claimed the conference championship for the fifth time in six years. The Falcons have two starters and three double-digit scorers returning from last season’s squad that made an NCAA Tournament appearance before falling to Rochester (NY) in the opening round. Senior Jaqhawn Walters (20.3 ppg, 13.4 rpg) led the conference in rebounds last season and will look to defend his GNAC Player of the Year title. Lasell (19-9) and Johnson & Wales (15-12) are teams to look out for in the GNAC race.
Little East Conference
Top Teams: 1. E. Connecticut 2. Keene St. 3. UMass Dartmouth Player of the Year: Tarchee Brown, E. Connecticut State, Sr. Outlook: Eastern Connecticut State (21-9) has high expectations for the 2017-18 with three starters and two double-digit scorers returning from last year’s squad that won a conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round. The Warriors will look to senior guard Tarchee Brown on offense. Brown led the conference in scoring last season with 18.6 ppg and has earned All-Little East First Team honors three times. Keene State (22-10) made an Elite Eight appearance last season before falling to No. 1 Babson and will likely come out again this time around. UMass Dartmouth (17-10) is expected to be a factor in the race as well.
Massachusetts State Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Salem St. 2. Fitchburg St. 3. Bridgewater Player of the Year: Shaquan Murray, Salem St., Sr. Outlook: Salem State (17-11) lost only one starter and two roster playes from last year’s NCAA Tournament team. The Vikings welcome back eight players who started last season, led by first-team all-conference selection Shaquan Murray (15.8 ppg) and junior Alexander Santos (11.5 ppg). Fitchburg St. (15-11) has three starters back and must replace league MVP Jaleel Bell (22.2 ppg). 5
1. Augustana (Ill.) 2. Whitman 3. Marietta 4. Chris. Newport 5. Amherst 6. Emory 7. Wis. River Falls 8. Williams 9. Hanover 10. Ramapo 11. Wooster 12. Washington U. 13. Babson 14. St. John Fisher 15. Guilford 16. Scranton 17. Nebraska Wesleyan 18. Misericordia 19. Farmingdale State 20. Albertus Magnus 21. Lycoming 22. Tufts 23. Maryville 24. St. Thomas 25. Wis. Whitewater
Others to watch:
CMS Wartburg Swarthmore Hope Ohio Northern St. Vincent Morrisville St. Franklin & Marshall SUNY Canton Ohio Wesleyan Morrisville St.
New England Women’s and Men’s Conference
Top Teams: 1. Babson 2. MIT 3. WPI Player of the Year: Jake Ross, Springfield, So. Outlook: Babson (31-2) captured its first-ever national championship last season after a dominant campaign from start to finish. The Beavers have two starters returning to defend their title, including senior forward Nick Comenale, who averaged 16 ppg, and 5.4 rpg during the 2016-17 season. MIT (21-7) also represented the conference in the 2017 NCAA Tournament after edging out Babson for the NEWMAC Tournament title.
NESCAC
Top Teams: 1. Amherst 2. Williams 3. Tufts Player of the Year: Johnny McCarthy, Amherst, Sr. Outlook: Amherst (17-8) is looking to get back to postseason action after missing out last year. The Purple and White return two starters but welcome back their top three scorers. Jayde Dawson (19.1 ppg), Johnny McCarthy (14.2 ppg) and Michael Riopel (10.2 ppg) accounted for more than half of the team’s 79.4 ppg average. Williams (23-9) looks to build on its Final Four appearance (finished 3rd nationally). The Ephs return 14 of 16 players and four starters from last year, led by forward Kyle Scadlock (12.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg). Tufts (22-7) returns three starters, including top scorer Vincent Pace (13.9 ppg, 6.0 rpg) and should be a factor in the NESCAC race.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews New England Collegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. Becker 2. So. Vermont 3. Lesley Player of the Year: Samuel Durodola, Becker, Sr. Outlook: Southern Vermont (17-10) went 14-2 in conference play last season, but Becker (19-9) is the team to beat in the New England Collegiate Conference this year. Becker returns three starters from its NCAA Tournament team, including top scorer and NECC Player of the Year Samuel Durodola (18.9 ppg, 10.6 rpg).
North Atlantic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Husson 2. Castleton 3. Thomas Player of the Year: Jourdain Bell, Colby-Sawyer, Jr. Outlook: Husson (21-7) has four starters returning from last year’s 21-7 team that captured its fourth conference championship in five years. The Eagles will rely on Justin Martin to protect the rim as he led the team in rebounding (10.3 rpg).
East Region Empire Eight
Top Teams: 1. St. John Fisher 2. Stevens 3. Utica Player of the Year: Tyler Stenglein, Nazareth, Sr. Outlook: St. John Fisher (23-6) led the conference in rebounds last season and hopes to dominate the glass again with four starters returning in 2017-18. The Cardinals defeated Stevens in the conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round before falling to Tufts. Nazareth is a team to look out for as leading scorer Tyler Stenglein returns for his senior campaign (20.2 ppg, 7.6 rpg). Utica’s Ivan Iton will also pose a threat on the defensive end (10.1 rpg).
Liberty League
Top Teams: 1. Skidmore 2. St. Lawrence 3. Union Player of the Year: Edvinas Rupkus, Skidmore, Jr. Outlook: Skidmore (20-8), St. Lawrence (20-7) and Union (17-11) all represented the Liberty League in the 2017 NCAA Tournament. Skidmore dominated the conference for most of the season, but Union showed strength late in the season by winning the conference championship for the first time since 2005. Two full-time starters will return for Skidmore this season, including senior Edvinas Rupkus (20.7 ppg, 7.4 rpg).
North Eastern Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Morrisville St. 2. Wells 3. Lancaster Bible Player of the Year: Rich Ross, Wells, Jr.. Outlook: Defending champion Morrisville St. (22-7) welcomes back four starters from its NCAA Tournamnent team. Super sophomore Kevin Dennis (19.2 ppg, 10.8 rpg) ranked fourth in the league in scoring and tops in rebounding last season and should be a key for the Mustangs. Watch for Wells and Lancaster Bible to challenge in the NEAC race this year as each returns an all-conference performer. 6
SUNYAC
Top Teams: 1. Oswego St. 2. Oneonta 3. Brockport Player of the Year: Justin Cooper, Cortland, Jr. Outlook: Oswego State returns two starters from last season’s 21-7 team that defeated Oneonta (17-11) in the conference championship to win its third title in six years. The Lakers also made their third-straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Jamir Ferebee (12.5 ppg) and Ian Schupp (12.3 ppg) will lead the backcourt for the Lakers as they look to continue their conference dominance. Brockport (19-7) and Oneonta (17-11) are teams expected to challenge in the SUNYAC race.
South Region
American Southwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. Hardin-Simmons 2. LeTourneau 3. Concordia Player of the Year: Khyce Randall, Howard Payne, Sr. Outlook: Despite losing seven seniors and no returning starters, Hardin-Simmons (24-7) still has enough talent on the roster to make a run at the league title. The Cowboys set a new school record for wins last season and made a deep run in the NCAA Tournament before falling to No. 1 Whitman in the Round of 16. Senior guard Caleb Spoon started in 17 games for the Cowboys last season and leads all returners in scoring (11.3 ppg, 2.3 rpg). LeTourneau (22-6) and Concordia Texas (19-8) should challenge Hardin Simmons for the top spot in the conference. Mary Hardin-Baylor (16-10) is a team to watch.
Old Dominion Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Guilford 2. Randolph-Macon 3. Emory & Henry Player of the Year: Clayton Murtha, Washington & Lee, Sr. Outlook: Guilford returns three starters from last season’s 21-6 team that defeated Emory & Henry (20-8) in the conference championship and made a run to the NCAA Second Round. The Quakers’ two leading scorers, Carson Long (14.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg) and Alston Thompson (11 ppg, 7.7 rpg), are expected to put up big numbers this year after breakout performances last season. Emory & Henry (20-8) and Randolph-Macon (17-9) are teams to look out for.
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Texas Lutheran 2. Schreiner 3. Colorado College Player of the Year: John Hatch, Colo. College, Sr. Outlook: Texas Lutheran (19-10) won a third consecutive SCAC Tournament title last season as the the Bulldogs defeated Schreiner in the conference championship game and earned their third-straight trip to the Big Dance. The Bulldogs have two returning starters and will look for players to step up on offense as the team’s three leading scorers graduated. Colorado College’s John Hatch, (17.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg) is the conference’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year and is one to keep an eye on.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Southern Athletics Association
Top Teams: 1. Rhodes 2. Centre 3. Birmingham Southern Player of the Year: Tucker Sine, Centre, Jr. Outlook: Rhodes (17-11) has two starters and two double-digit scorers returning from last season’s squad that won the first conference tournament championship in program history and appeared in the NCAA Tournament. The Lynx will look to leading scorer Anesu Nyawata (13.7 ppg) to anchor the offense.
USA South Atlantic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Maryville 2. Methodist 3. Averett Player of the Year: Adrian Moore, N.C. Wesleyan, Sr. Outlook: Maryville College (20-7) returns more than 80 percfent of its points and rebounding. Four starters and nine juniors return and are led by second-team all-conference Calvin Songster (13.6 ppg) and leading rebounder Colt Nokes (11.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg).
Mid. Atlantic Region
Capital Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Chris. Newport 2. York 3. Salisburg Player of the Year: Marcus Carter, Chris. Newport, Sr. Outlook: Christopher Newport (27-3) returns just one starter from last year’s Sweet 16 team and must replace three of its top five starters. All-American Marcus Carter (12.8 ppg, 6.5 rpg) is one of the nation’s top players in the country and is expected to carry CNU back to postseason action. Aaron McFarland (10.7 ppg) will contribute to the offensive effort for the Captians. York (17-10) is expected to compete in the CAC as it lost just two players from last year’s roster. All five starters are back for the Spartans, led by top scorere Matt Scamuffo (16 ppg) and Blayde Reich (13.7 ppg).
Centennial Conference
Top Teams: 1. Swarthmore 2. Franklin & Marshall 3. Dickinson Player of the Year: Cam Wiley, Swarthmore, Jr. Outlook: Look for a tight race in the Centennial Conference this year. Swarthmore (23-6) is coming off a program-best 23 wins in 2016-17 and its first-ever conference championship. The Garnet return two starters this year, led by top scorer and league MVP Cam Wiley (18.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg). Franklin & Marshall (188) is also poised to fight for the top spot in the conference with five starters returning, led by senior Brandon Federici, who led the conference in scoring last season (19.9 ppg).
Colonial States Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Neumann 2. Cabrini 3. Gwynedd Mercy Player of the Year: Tyheim Monroe, Cabrini, Sr. Outlook: Neumann returns one starter and two double-digit scorers from last year’s 25-3 team that nearly went undefeated in conference play and dominated Gwynedd Mercy in the 7
conference championship. Neumann and Cabrini (19-8) represented the Colonial Conference in the 2017 NCAA Tournament. Cabrini’s Tyheim Monroe led the league in scoring and rebounding last season (21.8 ppg, 15.8 rpg), earning Colonial’s Player of the Year title.
Landmark Conference
Top Teams: 1. Scranton 2. Moravian 3. Susquehanna Player of the Year: Jay Howard, Catholic, Sr. Outlook: Scranton (22-7) secured its seventh conference championship in 10 years last season and looks to defend the title with four returning starters on the roster for the 2017-18 season. Senior Ethan Danzig (12.4 ppg) is the leading returning scorer for the Royals. Moravian (19-9) has two starters returning. Susquehanna (23-6) also left its mark last season, earning a trip to the Sweet 16 and has two starters back. The River Hawks will need to replace their leading scorer.
Middle Atlantic Conference
Commonwealth Top Teams: 1. Lycoming 2. Widener 3. Lebanon Valley Player of the Year: Sam Light, Lebanon Valley, Sr. Outlook: Lycoming (24-5) welcomes back three starters and must replace two of its top three scorers this year. Chris Wallace (12.1 ppg) is the top returning scorer for the Warriors and will get help from Alex Newbold (8.4 ppg) as the team pursues another league scoring crown (81.8). Widener (16-10) has three starters and its top two scorers back in the mix. Sardayah Sambo (15.6 ppg) and Sam Smith (14.6 ppg) are a dynamic scoring duo for the Pride. Lebanon Valley (16-11) will be a factor with the league’s top scorer (Sam Light, 22.4 ppg) and Andy Orr (18.8 ppg) leading the way. Freedom Top Teams: 1. Misericorida 2. Del. Valley 3. Eastern Player of the Year: Jason Kenny, Misericorida, Jr. Outlook: Misericordia (20-8) has high expectations with its three top scorers and three starters back from its NCAA Tournament team. Leading scorer Jason Kenny (20.5 ppg) teams with Tony Harding (14.6 ppg) and Tre Fields (14.1 ppg) to account for more than half of the team’s 85.21 ppg output.
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DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Atlantic Region CUNYAC
Top Teams: 1. Staten Island 2. CCNY 3. Lehman Player of the Year: Chimaechi Ekekeugbor, Baruch, Sr. Outlook: After completing a perfect conference record in 2016-17, defending champion Staten Island (21-7) returns three starters to the lineup. The Dolphins will look to senior Kevon Murphy (13.8 ppg, 6.9 rpg) to be the offensive catalyst. CCNY (17-10) and Lehman (17-10) will likely battle for the top spot, but Baruch (18-10) is a team to watch as it returns the league’s top scorer in Chimaechi Ekekeugbor (19 ppg).
New Jersey Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Ramapo 2. TCNJ 3. NJ City Player of the Year: Thomas Bonacum, Ramapo, Sr. Outlook: Reigning conference champion Ramapo (26-3) has high expectations with four starters and its top two scorers returning to the court from last year’s NCAA Tournament squad. Senior Thomas Bonacum (17.1, 6.5) earned the conference’s Player of the Year title last season. New Jersey City also represented the conference in the NCAA Tournament and is a team to look out for as is The College of New Jersey.
Skyline Conference
Top Teams: 1. Farmingdale St. 2. Old Westbury 3. Sage Player of the Year: Patrick MacDonald, Maritime, Sr. Outlook: Defending champion Farmingdale State (20-8) is looking to build on its strong 2016-17 campaign. Four starters and four double-digit scorers are returning for the Rams. George Riefenstahl (12.4 ppg, 9.5 rpg) anchored the defense that ranked eighth nationally in rebounds per game and 10th nationally in total rebounds last year.
Great Lakes Region
Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. Penn St. Behrend 2. La Roche 3. Medaille Player of the Year: Jalen Smith, Hilbert, Sr. Outlook: Penn St. Behrend (21-8) returns four starters from last season and lost only two players from its roster. Andy Niland (13.3 ppg) and Dan Wanker (11.5 ppg) carry the scoring load for the Lions. La Roche and Medaille are teams to watch in the AMCC race.
Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. Hope 2. Calvin 3. Trine Player of the Year: Dante Hawkins, Hope, Sr. Outlook: Hope (23-11) returns two starters from last season’s team that finished 13-1 in conference play. The Flying Dutchmen bounced back from a loss in the conference championship with a deep run to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. Hope’s Dante Hawkins finished top 5 in the conference for 8
scoring last season with 16.5 ppg. Calvin (17-11) captured the conference championship last season and is a team to watch with four starters back in the mix. Junior wing Michael Wilks (12.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg) leads the Knights.
North Coast Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Wooster 2. Ohio Wesleyan 3. Denison Player of the Year: Nate Axelrod, Ohio Wesleyan, Sr. Outlook: Ohio Wesleyan (21-7), Denison (22-5) and Wooster (21-8) fought head-to-head all season for the top spot in the conference. Wooster ultimately won the conference championship, earning its first NCAA Tournament berth since 2014. Wooster will return two full-time starters and three double-digit scorers from last season’s team that led the North Coast Conference in scoring offense, averaging 84.9 points per game. Ohio Wesleyan has a weapon in senior Nate Axelrod who is the reigning North Coast Player of the Year.
Ohio Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Marietta 2. John Carroll 3. Ohio Northern Player of the Year: Keith Richrdson, Marietta, Sr. Outlook: Marietta (26-5) has momentum heading into the season with four starters and and three double-digit scorers returning from last year’s squad that went 16-2 in conference play, earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the third-straight year and made it to the Sweet 16. Marietta will rely on Keith Richardson (15 ppg) to lead the offense. John Carroll and Ohio Northern are expected to be top challengers.
President’s Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Vincent 2. Thomas More 3. Thiel Player of the Year: Tyreik Burton, Thiel, Sr. Outlook: Saint Vincent (21-7) lost only one player from last year and welcomes back four starters this campaign. Leading scorer Matt D’Amico (12.6 ppg) and Tom Kromka (11.9 ppg) lead the offensive attack for the Bearcats. Defending league champion Thomas More (22-7) looks to get back to NCAA Tournament action with all five starters back in the fold. Damion King (14.1 ppg) is the top returning scorer for the Saints.
Midwest Region
College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin
Top Teams: 1. Augustana 2. North Central 3. North Park Player of the Year: Jordan Robinson, North Park, Sr. Outlook: Augustana (24-9) returns four starters and several key reserves from last year’s NCAA Division III national runnerup squad, led by junior Chrishawn Orange (14.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg), who earned all-conference, all-district, and all-region honors as a sophomore. Senior Dylan Sortillo (12.5 ppg, 3.9 rpg) —a second team All-CCIW selection—also returns. North Central (18-11) lost only one player and welcomes back four starters this year. Top scorer and first-team all-league selection Alex
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews Sorenson (17.8 ppg, 9.2 rpg) provides offensive spark and rebounding while Erwin Henry (13.2 ppg) and Aiden Chang (10.6 ppg) add scoring support for the Cardinals. North Park (18-8) will compete behind league MVP Jordan Robinson.
Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Hanover 2. Mt. St. Joseph 3. Anderson Player of the Year: Wes McKinney, Hanover, Sr. Outlook: Hanover (26-4) has high expectations with four starters returning from last year’s historic team that dominated the Heartland conference and made a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The Panthers stunned No. 18 Hope in the Sweet 16 with a buzzer beater that led to the first Elite Eight appearance in program history. Hanover will rely on the conference’s reigning Player of the Year, Wes McKinney, who led the conference in rebounds (8.4 rpg) and double-doubles (11). Mount St. Joseph (20-7) put up a fight against Hanover in the conference championship game and will likely come out strong again this season.
Midwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Norbert 2. Lake Forest 3. Cornell Player of the Year: D.J. DeValk, St. Norbert, Sr. Outlook: St. Norbert (19-5) looks to move up in the league standings with five players returning who started at some point last year. Leading scorer D.J. DeValk (15.2 ppg) tops the scoring attack for the Knights and should get help from Mitchell Reinthaler (12.1 ppg). Lake Forest (14-11) and Cornell (11-12) could be factors in the MAC race. Ripon (20-6) begins life without Ty Sabin and his 30.7 points per game, but the Red Hawks still will play a role in the standings.
Northern Athletics Conference
Top Teams: 1. Benedictine 2. Aurora 3. Concordia Player of the Year: Ty Carlson, Aurora, Jr. Outlook: Following the best two-year run in school history, Benedictine (23-5) will need upperclassmen to step into a leadership role following the graduation of three all-conference performers. The team has reached the NCAA Tournament in each of the past two campaigns with a runner-up finish in 2016 and will have another tough schedule to prep for the long conference slate. Just one starter is back for the Eagles, and will look to Braydon Olson (14 ppg) to step into a starting roles this campaign.
St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Westminster 2. Greenville 3. Eureka Player of the Year: Shea Feehan, Eureka, Jr. Outlook: Westminster (19-9) brings back a talented group of returners, including three starters, who have been to back-toback NCAA tournaments. The group will look to newcomers to fill the post positions, but the 1-3 positions are well-handled 9
by seasoned veterans who put up a lot of points. Senior guard Jimmy Villalobos (12.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg) and backcourt mate Carter Wands (6.3 ppg, 3.1 apg) lead the scoring effort for the Blue Jays. Greenville (21-6) returns two starters this season and must replace eight seniors and its top six scorers. Kieshaun Young-Jones (8.9 ppg) and Johari Dix (8.8 ppg) are expected to increase their output this season.
West Region
Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. Neb. Wesleyan 2. Wartburg 3. Loras Player of the Year: Cooper Cook, Neb. Wesleyan, Jr. Outlook: Nebraska Wesleyan (18-8) returns four starters and its top six scorers from last year’s IIAC regular season championship team. The Prairie Wolves welcome back IIAC MVP Cooper Cook, and West Region Rookie of the Year Nate Schimonitz (19.1 ppg, 4.9 rpg). NWU is aiming for a postseason berth in its second season as a full-time member of NCAA III. IIAC Tournament champion Wartburg (21-10) has two starters back from its Sweet 16 team. Jaran Sabus (13.5 ppg) could slide into a starting role this year and teams with Nate Woeste (11.8 ppg) to provide the bulk of the scoring load for the Knights. Loras will be a factor in the league race as well.
Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Thomas 2. Bethel 3. St. John’s Player of the Year: David Stokman, St. John’s, Jr. Outlook: St. Thomas (19-8) graduated four seniors, led by All-American Grant Shaeffer. The Tommies do return nearly 65 percent of their scoring and 55 percent of their rebounding from last year’s NCAA Tournament team. Two starters are back for UST, led by senior forward Ryan Boll (14.3 ppg) and reserve Michael Hannon (12.8 ppg). Bethel (21-7) earned a share of its first MIAC regular season championship and was crowned playoff champions for the second time in program history before losing to No. 4-UW-River Falls in a NCAA Tournament double-OT heartbreaker. The Royals return three starters, led by senior guard Bridgeport Tusler (15 ppg, 4.3 rpg).
Northwest Conference
Top Teams: 1. Whitman 2. Whitworth 3. Linfield Player of the Year: Tim Howell, Whitman, Sr. Outlook: The Whitman Blues (31-1) had a perfect season until they squared off against Babson in the NCAA Final Four. The Blues hope to build on last season’s historic run as they return all five starters and five double-digit scorers. League MVP Tim Howell is poised for a dominant senior campaign after leading the conference in scoring last season (20.4 ppg). Joey Hewitt and Jase Harrison add depth to Whitman’s backcourt and are efficient scorers. Whitworth (23-5) also represented the Northwest Conference in the NCAA Tournament last season and should be a factor along with Linfield.
DIII News • October 2017
Conference Previews West, Cont.
Southern California Intercollegiate Conference
Top Teams: 1. CMS 2. Cal Lutheran 3. La Verne Player of the Year: Michael Scarlett, CMS, Sr. Outlook: Claremont-Mudd-Scripps’ Michael Scarlett returns for his senior season after a standout 2016-17 campaign that earned him the SCIAC Player of the Year award. Scarlett led the Stags (23-5) to a 10-0 start in conference play and averaged a team-high 19.3 points per game, good for the second highest mark in the conference. With three full-time starters and two double-digit scorers returning, the Stags hope to improve on last seasons run to the NCAA Second Round. Cal Lutheran fared well against conference opponents last season, posting a 12-4 record in SCIAC play.
Upper Midwest Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. St. Scholastica 2. Northwestern 3. Bethany Lutheran Player of the Year: CD Douglas, Minn. Morris, Sr. Outlook: The College of St. Scholastica (17-10) returns four starters and most of its roster from last year’s team that reached the UMAC Tournament title game for the second straight season. Brandon Newman (16.4 ppg) is among three double-figure scorers back for the Saints. Northwestern and Bethany Lutheran should be competitive in the UMAC race.
Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Top Teams: 1. River Falls 2. Whitewater 3. Eau Claire Player of the Year: Alex Herink, Rivers Falls, Sr. Outlook: The River Falls Falcons (25-4) will defend their league title behind All-American Alex Herink (15.9 ppg, 5.9 rpgh) and returns 10 of their top 13 players who played significant minutes in 2016-17. One transfer and five freshman will join the Falcons for 2017-18. One year after coming within one basket of defeating eventual national runner-up Augustana (Ill.) in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, UW-Whitewater (22-7) graduated only one starter and one key reserve. Second-team all-region and first team all-conference selection Chris Jones (17.9 ppg, 2.6 rpg) leads the backcourt, and the honorable mention All-WIAC trio of Scotty Tyler (14.4 ppg, 6.0 rpg), Derek Rongstad (11.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg) Demetrius Woodley (8.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg) lead the front court.
University Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. Emory 2. Washington 3. Rochester Player of the Year: Adam Gigax, Emory, Sr. Outlook: Emory (19-8) has high expectations with four starters back this season. Leading scorer Adam Gigax (18.3 ppg) and Christopher Avant (11.6 ppg) power the Eagles’ offense. WashU returns six of its eight top scorers from a year ago when the Bears posted a 21-6 overall mark and won its 14th UAA title in school history. WashU also advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Senior forward Andrew Sanders (16.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg) is the go-to offensive option for the Bears. Rochester (24-5) will have a new look as it replaces its three top scorers from last year who accounted for more than half of its offense. Jacob Wittig (8.8 ppg) should increase his scoring output this year.
American Collegiate Athletic Association
Top Teams: 1. SUNY Canton 2. Pine Manor 3. Valley Forge Player of the Year: Taverick Roberson, Pine Manor, Sr. Outlook: SUNY Canton (20-9) is expected to be the top team in the new ACAA this year. The Kangaroos return two starters from last year, led by junior guard Adrian Williams (12.3 ppg). Canton must replace its top two scorers from last season who accounted for more than 40 points per game. Pine Manor (16-10) will challenge this season with its entire roster back from last year and a new head coach. Leading scorer Taverick Roberson (19.6 ppg) is the leading scorer for the Gators.
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DIII News • October 2017
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DIIIN Top 24 Selections Nate Axelrod Jordan Richardson Marcus Carter Tim Howell Thomas Bonacum Tyheim Monroe Alex Herink Michael Scarlett Jaqhawn Walters Cooper Cook Samuel Durodola Rich Ross Tyreik Burton Cam Wiley Wes McKinney Marcos Echevarria Alex Gigax Sam Light Tarchee Brown Shea Feehan Jake Ross Adrian Moore Dante Hawkins Jay Howard
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2017-18 Preseason All-Americans
Honorable Mention
Andy Orr, Lebanon Valley, Sr. Kevin Dennis, Morrisville St., So. Brandon Federici, Frank & Marsh, Sr. JJ Kukuram Mount Union, Sr. Jason Kenny, Misericorida, Jr. Chimaechi Ekekeugbor, Baruch, Sr. Shaquan Murray, Salem St., Sr. Keith Richrdson, Marietta, Sr. Johnny McCarthy, Amherst, Sr. Tyler Stenglein, Nazareth, Sr. Jourdain Bell, Colby-Sawyer, Jr. Clayton Murtha, Washington & Lee, Sr. Edvinas Rupkus, Skidmore, Jr. Khyce Randall, Howard Payne, Sr. Justin Cooper, Cortland, Jr. Andrew Sanders, WashU, Sr. John Hatch, Colo. College, Sr. Ty Carlson, Aurora, Jr. CD Douglas, Minn. Morris, Sr. Patrick MacDonald, Maritime, Sr. Jalen Smith, Hilbert, Sr. Taverick Roberson, Pine Manor, Sr. Trevor Lucas, Anderson, Sr. D.J. DeValk, St. Norbert, Sr. David Stokman, St. John’s (MN), Jr. Chris Jones, Wis. Whitewater, Sr. Tucker Sine, Centre, Jr. Jason Kenny, Misericordia, Jr. Michael Gutierrez, Macalester, Jr. Rashaan Spencer, Centenary (NJ), Sr.
DIII News • October 2017
