The Eastern Kentucky University men’s basketball team opens its season at home Monday night against Miami of Ohio-Middletown. During the annual media day event, EKU Head Coach A.W. Hamilton said there are nine new players on the team. The fifth-year coach noted there’s “buy-in” as a group and his team is eager to make its mark.
“They’re putting themselves in a position to be a really good basketball team, but it’s going to be tough early. We know that. It’s can you stay the course, can you get through adversity? When you hit a bump can you get through to the other side of it. And they’re showing us they can do that.” said Hamilton.
Forward Michael Moreno of Scott County is seen as a team leader. For his part, he said this team’s growth includes off-the-court experiences.
“I would say this is the closest team I’ve been on in four years, as far as off the court. You know, we’ve always gotten along but this team is just a little bit different. Coach has put an emphasis on not only taking pride in being a part of this basketball team but being a part of a group with each other.”
EKU is coming off a 13 and 18 record last year.
The Colonels will be playing in a re-named arena. It was announced last week Baptist Health Richmond secured naming rights with the Richmond school.