BALTIMORE — Despite beginning the season off 0-4, the Coppin State Men’s basketball workforce is not anxious.
They imagine they’ve what it takes to not solely get within the win column however flip this early season round, and it begins with a game Thursday in opposition to UMBC.
“This is a really, really, really important game to win. I really feel like we now have it in us. We’re all locked in,” says Derrius Ward, Coppin State guard.
Throughout this four-game skid to open the season, the Eagles have struggled to put up factors, scoring beneath 55 in all 4 video games.
Head Coach Larry Stewart says he likes the seems they’re getting.
“We’re virtually averaging 59 pictures per game, however we’re making 18-20 of them. That will transition over ultimately,” says Stewart.
Whether pictures fall or not, Stewart says protection has to stay constant so as to get wins.
“It’s exhausting to keep constant as a result of once more, these guys are so depending on the offensive finish. You miss a shot and your effort begins to evaporate,” says Stewart.
One means to flip it round is with gamers like Ward, who was final week’s MEAC Defensive Player of the Week. The first time the senior switch has received the award.
“I really feel like this 12 months I really labored within the offseason, attempting to take the proper step attempting to be a defensive participant. I’m sort of good on offense, however I would like to have the option to play each side of the ball, offense and defensively,” says Ward.
This group’s confidence has not wavered as they search for win primary on the highway in opposition to UMBC on Thursday night time at 7.
“I like that we’re not preserving our heads down. We are available in follow on a regular basis motivated to go tougher. We’re taking steps in the proper path,” says Ward.
“The subsequent game can flip every thing for you. You can go from 0-4 to 1-4 or you possibly can go the opposite means round. You have to go in with the identical mindset, understanding that every game is important,” says Stewart.
