In addition to their hard work, the Oles feel that the experience on this team will help bring them success. “We are a veteran team, and we have a lot of guys who have been together for a long time. Our team chemistry this year is the best that it has been in the three years that I have been here. Everyone is on the same page, which is different than its been in the past. The young guys are eager to step in and help, and are very excited to be here,” said Kershaw. This year’s Oles have four seniors in the starting lineup, and Kosmoski feels that they add a great deal to the team. “You feel more comfortable because they know what’s expected from the coach, they know offensively what we’re trying to do and defensively,” he said. “Plus, most importantly, they’re able to give leadership to the younger players,” said Kosmoski. In order to be successful however, the Oles will have to be on top of their game because the MIAC conference boasts tough competition. “Gustavus is most likely to be the favorite heading into the season. Macalester, Bethel, St. Thomas, Concordia, and Carleton should all be pretty tough as well,” said Kershaw. “There is a great deal of [equality] throughout the conference. On any given night, anybody can beat anybody.” While the MIAC may be competitive, this year´s Oles possess not only hard work and experience, but also a strong sense of camaraderie. “This year’s team is more together than in years past. Friends off the court only makes you better teammates on the court,” said Jaunich. When they’re on the court, the experienced Oles are poised to make wise decisions. “Overall we are a much more mature team, and our play on the court will be a reflection of that. You are not going to see [this] team go out there and beat itself,” said Kershaw. The Oles will have an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities when they open the season at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Tourney on Nov. 22 and 23. They host Luther College in their home opener Nov. 26 at 7:30 p.m. The team hopes that Ole fans will cheer them on to victory during the season. “I think we’re going to play a fun brand of basketball. I think we’re going to be a much more experienced team, we’re going to bring a lot of energy to the game, said Kosmoski. “We want to do what we can to put forth a solid effort… and hopefully bring the student body out to have a fun night of entertainment.”

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