Lehigh University Athletics
Lehigh set to open practice
9/16/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Bethlehem, PA – Saturday marks the beginning of the basketball preseason, as the squad will hold a three-hour practice at Stabler Arena. First year head coach Billy Taylor returns three starters along with seven other players who saw game time in 2001-02. Leading the way for the Mountain Hawks is senior co-captain Matt Logie. Logie, the Patriot League’s top returning scorer (15.8 ppg), led Lehigh in minutes played, field goals attempted, three-point field goal percentage, and free throw percentage. Along with the 10 returnees, Taylor and his coaching staff have added six newcomers. Austen Rowland has also transferred to Lehigh from Delaware, but due to NCAA transfer rules, must sit out this season. Other newcomers of note include transfer Earl Nurse and freshmen Mitch Gilfillan, Chris Stephenson, Kevin Tempest, and Mike Fischman. Lehigh concluded its 2001-02 campaign with an overall record of 5-23, 2-12 in Patriot League action. Head coach Billy Taylor hopes to improve on that mark with his brand of basketball. "Our players are very excited about the beginning of the season," said coach Taylor. "It is a chance for them to go out and put all the hard work, time, and effort onto the floor for practical application. We are very excited about the beginning of the year and what we have been able to accomplish thus far," added Taylor. We want to build on that momentum going into a practice environment. We have work ahead of us as we are implementing a new system but I think that this is an exciting time for them as student-athletes." The Mountain Hawks open their season with an exhibition contest on November 15th against the Up-State All Stars (USDBL) while the regular season begins one week later, Friday the 22nd vs. Dartmouth. The team will hold an open practice for alumni Saturday, October 19 at 10:00 a.m. at Stabler Arena. Following the practice session there will be a tailgate reception in front of Goodman Stadium. For more information contact the basketball office at (610) 758-4297.
