Mar. 18, 2008

It is hard to believe that the 2007-08 season for the men's basketball season has drawn to a close.

The team lost to UW-Stevens Point in the first round of the NCAA tournament by a score of 67-53. While losing in the tournament is always difficult, the team had a tremendous year.

We finished with a record of 18-8 and won our second consecutive UAA championship. It was a great year and a tremendous amount of credit for the team's success goes to our four graduating seniors: Kirk Ellsworth, Nate Hainje, Tim Reynolds, and Zach Sheline.

These four guys were not only great contributors as players, they were tremendous leaders and represented our program, athletic department, and university with class at all times.

They and their families will be missed, but their contributions will be remembered for a long time and we look forward to their continued involvement in our program.

As the coaches move towards finalizing what is shaping up to be a terrific recruiting class, the upperclassmen have already started working towards next year.

I believe that our returning talent, along with the newcomers, will put us in competition for another UAA title. No one has ever won the UAA three straight years, and while this is a daunting goal, it is definitely achievable.

I know that the members of the team will work incredibly hard this off season towards accomplishing that goal.

A special thank you to all of you that supported the team this past year. The fan support from families, campus, students, and alumni was terrific. The team really appreciates the support and hope that you are already making plans to be at the Midway Classic next year!

** A special congratulations goes out to the members of the team that achieved all-UAA status this past year. Nate Hainje was named player of the year, Matt Corning made the first team, Jake Pancratz made second team, and Tim Reynolds was honorable mention.

Take Care,
Mike McGrath

Mike McGrath
Head Men's Basketball Coach