Men’s hoops is creating excitement

With 10 newcomers to the Williston State College men's basketball program, there is plenty of intrigue and excitement surrounding the team as the 2009-10 season tips off this weekend.

"Our goal was to recruit the best players we could," said Williston State head coach Hunter Berg. "Focusing more on size up front and more athleticism in the backcourt. We have excellent newcomers that have worked out well with our returning core of players."

The Tetons have the starting backcourt of Charlie Chapman and Luke Martinez back from the 2008-09 season, in which Williston State finished 18-15.

"They are very experienced players," Berg said of this two guards. "Even in junior college experience means a lot."

Williston State will have added depth in the backcourt with the addition of Tarell Clark. Clark, a 6-foot 3-inch guard, is a transfer from Western Nebraska Community College where he averaged 10 points and five rebounds per game.

"Tarell is as tough a player as I've seen," the Williston State coach said. "He is a warrior on the floor, exactly what we were looking for in a player."

The experience in the backcourt is a strength on this season's team. While Berg says there are weaknesses on the team, he also points out that they can counter them by using more athletic or perimeter shooting lineups on the court.

The Tetons will also have their share of local players on the roster. Williston residents Jordan Braun, Jarek Hansen, Matt Kvernum and Brett Colebank could play key roles on this season's team.

Another player Teton fans will have to keep an eye on this season is Mario Hawkins. Hawkins is a 6-foot 1-inch guard from Las Vegas.

"Mario has talent," Berg said. "And the more he plays, the more comfortable he'll get."

As for team goals, the Tetons are playing to win every time out.

"We want to win, there's no doubt," Berg said. "Our region is very tough. We want to compete in the region and conference."

The Tetons will open the season Sunday with a home game against Sheridan, Wyo., at 5 p.m.

"It's been a traditionally good, competitive and hard-fought rivalry," the Williston State coach said. "For a first game out of the (gate), it's as difficult as it gets. But that's why we play them."

2009-10 Tetons schedule

Nov. 1 vs. Sheridan, 5 p.m.

Nov. 6 at Casper CC, TBA

Nov. 7 vs. Northwest at Casper CC, TBA

Nov. 12 Mon-Dak tournament, 8 p.m.

Nov. 13 Mon-Dak tournament, 8 p.m.

Nov. 14 Mon-Dak tournament, 6 p.m.

Nov. 27-28 at North Idaho Thanksgiving Classic, TBA

Nov. 29 at Salish-Kootenai, TBA

Dec. 4 vs. Brandon University, 8 p.m.

Dec. 5 vs. Brandon University, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29-31 at Rotary tournament in Mesa, Ariz.

Jan. 2 vs. Regina, 3 p.m.

Jan. 5 at NDSCS, 8 p.m.

Jan. 7 MSU-Bottineau, 8 p.m.

Jan. 14 at Bismarck State College, 8 p.m.

Jan. 15 at United Tribes, 8 p.m.

Jan. 18 at Dawson Community College, 9 p.m.

Jan. 20 vs. Lake Region State College, 8 p.m.

Jan. 26 vs. Miles Community College, 8 p.m.

Jan. 30 vs. NDSCS, 6 p.m.

Feb. 3 at MSU-Bottineau, 8 p.m.

Feb. 8 vs. United Tribes, 8 p.m.

Feb. 10 at Miles Community College, 8:30 p.m.

Feb. 13-14 vs. Central Wyoming CC, 4 p.m.

Feb. 17 at Lake Region State College, 8:30 p.m.

Feb. 21 Bismarck State College, 6 p.m.

Feb. 24 Dawson Community College, 8 p.m.