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October 29 marked the men’s basketball team’s first home game of this season and their first win of the season, defeating Morningside College with a score of 76-68. Immediately following this triumph, the team defeated Briar Cliff University on October 30, and made an additional win against Grace University on November 3. The team reports that they have high hopes for the newly introduced season and hope to maintain their winning streak.

“As long as we can keep the same intensity on the floor and off the court, we can continue to win games,” said JV point guard Avery Thedford (junior). “We are all ready to play defense, and 3-0 is a good start—why not continue?”

According to Assistant Coach Austin Schlatter, the team has faced a couple challenges with early injuries. But at the meantime, they are quickly adapting to the new team formation and the new conference.

“I heard it’s going to be tough,” commented JV and Varsity center Tyler Springer (junior) in reference to the Heart of America Athletic Conference. “A lot tougher than the Midwest Collegiate Conference (MCC).”

The team currently includes only three seniors, but this does not seem to be any hindrance to the team. Schlatter, in fact, remarked on the great leadership qualities of the seniors on the team, Nick Lyon, Sam Skogen, and Jon Williams, which makes up for the dominance of lower-classmen on the team.

On Tuesday night, November 3, the Vikings won the game that earned them a three-win streak. Immediately following the game, some of the players shared their excitement and anticipation for the games ahead.

“It was a good game,” Varsity point guard Chase Mullen remarked. “We had a lot of turnovers, but we got it together on the second half and pulled off a win.”

“We’re getting better every day now,” assured Varsity wing/forward Jjuan Hadnot (sophomore). “We‘re more of a family. Last year, we separated and did our own thing and it caused us to lose. This year, we team together.”

Many of the players emphasized the importance of having a good crowd of supporters at the game. Varsity guard/wing Kerry Green (junior) reflected that the bigger the crowd is, the better the game is.

“Keep coming to the games,” is Green’s message to Grand View students. “We love you all.”