After a roller coaster 9-19 season (5-11 in conference), Head Coach Travis Nichols is excited about the team he has assembled, with hopes of having a turnaround 2024-25 campaign.

"I'm a true fan of the game," says Nichols. "After a long offseason of practices, I'm excited to get back to critiquing our play. But more than anything, I just want to see the guys play."

Despite losing key players Steve Stinson (first-team all-conference) and Chanel Mballa (second-team all-conference), the team has reloaded with talented players:

• Donoban Avery, a 6'10" forward from Palmdale, CA
• Tayne McCann, a 6'6" freshman from Australia
• Jett Wilson, a 6'0" guard from La Jolla High School
• Jaylon and Jaydon Hall, 6'2" twin guards from Temple, Texas

"We've brought in players who will fill the gaps left by players moving on," Nichols says. "There will be no drop in talent; in fact, I believe we've gotten better. Now, it's up to each individual player to establish his own identity and create his own legacy."

A key factor for the team's success this year will be staying healthy. Availability is one of the biggest elements you can give your team.  "Last year's team was hit hard by injuries, and that impacted our play, especially towards the latter part of our schedule" says Nichols. "We've focused a lot on getting stronger and overall wellness, to make sure our players are ready for an entire season. Another positive the coaching staff has noticed is the strong team chemistry. Nichols adds that the he believes the bonds they have formed will lead to a succesful season.

There has also been an emphasis on staying mentally tough and staying focused. 'Too often last season, we created unforced errors that cost us the game,' adds Nichols. 

With the new exciting players added, and an emphasis on staying locked in the entire game, this is an exciting time for Mesa College basketball.