.png)
The Olivet College men’s basketball team is looking to go back to back as conference champions for the first time since 1972 and 1973.
These winning teams have done wonders for the community, as well at the college. Rob Fleming, a long-time community member, said, “These teams have heightened the interest. With Olivet being such a small community, it gives people something to do.”
When Assistant Coach Chad Loveless was asked what makes these basketball teams the past two years different than in the past, he said, “Coach [Steve] Ernst is able to recruit at a high level at this level. Coach Ernst has created a lot of relationships, as well as having a guy like Tracy Edmond to really drive the team is helpful.
Olivet College lost key contributors from last year’s team, such as Jalen Adams. However, a player that has played on both teams is senior point guard Tracy Edmond. When Edmond was asked what it would mean to him to go back to back with championships, he said, “It would mean a lot for the college, but for me as a competitor getting two championships would mean a lot and put me up with some of the greats at Olivet College.”
Home games at The Cutler Event Center mean packed stands, challenging parking and participation by not only fans but cheer teams and an engaged Athletic Pep Band, The Albion match up Jan. 26 was practically standing room only. The crowd watched the Comets fall, for the second time this season, to the Brits in a game that was close throughout.
The next home game is the last scheduled game of the season, Saturday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m. against the Calvin Knights. As of press time, the Comets are 6-2 in the MIAA conference before a scheduled Jan. 30 home game against Trine, a conference leader.