After having the chance to revel in their postseason success since last spring, the Bobcats now have to put the accomplishments behind them as the season begins.
Tomorrow's game against Delaware begins Ohio's regular-season schedule and will be the first time the Bobcats have taken the court in a meaningful game since falling to Tennessee in the NCAA tournament.
Although the Mid-American Conference tournament run, along with an upset of Georgetown in the first round of the NCAA tournament, has provided the team with an immense amount of confidence, the players are focused on what lies ahead.
I want them to always cherish the memories of last spring
but right now is not the time said coach John Groce. Right now we've got a season that has started on Oct. 14
and we have our first game this weekend. The reality of it is that what happened last year has nothing to do with this year.
Point guard D.J. Cooper said the team has combatted the complacency that might come from the success. The sophomore also believes the team has the right mindset to deal with moving on.
It's easy to get complacent
but we have good guys around here
Cooper said. Humble and hungry guys
guys who are good leaders like DeVaughn (Washington) and Reggie (Keely). We have leaders who are ready to come back and work hard.
Groce's approach to the team has made it easier for the players to move on from the victory, said forward Tommy Freemen.
We really just come to practice every day ready to work
Freemen said. ...I think everyone has stayed humble and coach has made sure that it stays that way.
The Bobcats lost only two impact players from the team in Armon Bassett and Kenneth Van Kempen. With many returners, Groce has seen his young team grow since March.
After being MAC Freshman of the Year, Cooper has taken strides, especially as a scorer in Bassett's absence. The point guard balanced distributing the ball and shooting in Ohio's last home game against Walsh as he moves into a bigger scoring role.
I see a lot of different things in him
Groce said. Obviously he hasn't arrived fully yet
but he's stronger
mentally tougher
