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The Olivet College men’s basketball team is back after a historic season. The team is now preparing with Team 108.
Last season, the men’s basketball team won the MIAA (Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association) for the rst time since 1973. According to the Battle Creek Enquirer, “The Comets (15-10, 10-4) finished the regular season as MIAA co-champions along with Hope (16-9, 10-4). The Comets clinched the share when they defeated the Flying Dutchmen, 70-49, on Feb. 14, 2018.”
The team last season was known as “Team 107” because after 107 years, they took back the MIAA trophy. This season they go by “Team 108” to continue the tradition.
Senior and point guard Tracy Edmond said, “We are looking to win the national championship this
year while taking Olivet to its rst NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) tournament ever.” Edmond was a stand out last, season and fans expect nothing less from him in his senior year.
Edmond said, “This season is special because our talent and everyone’s desire to win on this team. We have the team we expected to have last year, so it’s going to be exciting to get out there and put on a show.”
Edmond said, “I’m just looking to enjoy my last year of college basketball with my teammates and make this college proud. Last season winning the MIAA championship and rings was very exciting! We set that goal at the beginning of the year and being able to achieve that goal with my brothers after 45 years is something I’ll never forget.”
Freshman Chris Long is one of seven new athletes joining Team 108.
Long said, “As a new player and a freshman it’s a lot of stuff to take in. I’m with a completely new team, new school, new town but I do like the group of guys that we have they’re all passionate about the game of basketball and want to win. Our chemistry is growing everyday and as we get to know each other more, the more we could achieve.”
Long said, “I’m personally excited to play with a whole new group of guys and seeing what we can accomplish together. Our main objective this season is to win championships, conference and nationals. Also possibly get in the NCAA tournament which would be the rst time in the history of the school. We already have been doubted on how our season is going to turn out even after coming off a championship. We want to prove to them that we are more than capable of winning and some more.”
The basketball team’s rst game was Oct. 27 at Lake Superior State. The first conference game is Jan. 3, 2019, against Albion at Albion.