The Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) Javelina’s men’s basketball team will take on the Hardrockers of South Dakota School of Mines and Technology for their first game of the season on Nov. 9 on the road. The Javelinas defeated the Hardrockers by a score of 71-53 last season. Most of South Dakota’s team is returning. The returnees include the top four scorers from last year’s game, which can make for an interesting rematch come November. The players cannot wait until the season kicks off as the team started official practice on Oct. 15. The energy is said to be high on the court. “They were [really] antsy, they were very antsy about starting practice and we’ve had a good week so far,” said Head Coach Johnny Estelle.
He also talked about the gaps left from graduating seniors. “We kind of got a whole new team, about five returners…I really like what I see so far. The character has been really good. The work ethic has been really good. The competitiveness has been really good so who knows, we may have a chance to win a few games,” the coach said. After watching the team practice, it’s evident the competitive spirit is there. “Championships…We’re trying to leave a legacy, to be honest, to keep (a winning) culture going….and put a smile on [Coach Estelle’s] face before we leave,” said senior and forward Elton Dyer. Size can make a huge difference in the game of basketball, but senior and guard, Alex Mills sees potential in all the different-sized players they can put out on the court. “We can do different lineups, we [have] big guards and small guards. We’re deep on the big [players] and frontcourt. So, we’re [good to go],” he said. The team is looking forward to Nov. 9 despite possible freezing weather up north. “It may be about -15 but hopefully it’ll be about 101 out on the floor,” Estelle said.