2023-24 Men's Basketball Preseason Preview

Elgin, IL - ALL IN. Sounds cliche, but when you read between the lines, you will see the goals laid out for the 2023 Judson Men's Basketball team. Head Coach Bruce Fields will enter his fourth year as Eagles Head Coach with a squad that is excited and ready to go. 

The "ALL IN" motto comes after a year riddled with injuries and adversity. The Eagles will feature a talented backcourt in the CCAC with senior guards Anterrious Rhyan and Javaris Wiggins leading the way. These guards will be supported by a strong group of transfers. One player that will stand out (literally) is 6 '10 Aussie, Sam Ellis (Brisbane, Australia). Sam's ability to both pass and shoot is impressive for his size. Newcomers Cee Jay Nwosu (Chicago, IL) and Will Osborne join from Missouri S&T and Colorado St. University Pueblo respectively, also figure to make significant contributions.

The Eagles have added much depth and experience throughout the roster. Junior guard Finn Walsh (Chicago, IL) comes from College of Dupage that made an impressive run in the NJCAA National Tournament. Dorien Little (Chicago, IL) was a 2nd-Team All-Conference player a season ago at Elgin Community College. Junior guard Kae Anderson from powerhouse South Suburban College adds athleticism to an already fast backcourt. Sophomore guard Mason Yoder will be making his debut after tearing his ACL in last year's preseason. "Mason has worked his tail off rehabbing to get back for this season. I'm excited to see him back at full strength and to see this group get after it," says Coach Fields. 

Coming off a disappointing season, the desire is there for this year's Eagles. "Our goal is to make the top eight and compete in the conference tournament for a chance to make the National tournament." Every conference game is going to be a challenge, but this group of Eagles is committed to putting in the work. Eight of the Eagles' first nine games will be on the road preparing them for competitive conference play. 

Coach Fields is honored to be joined by Barik Olden (Olivet Nazarene University). Olden was a standout at his previous school where his team finished with a record of 99-20 and reached the national tournament every year in his four-year career. "Coach Barik is extremely hard-working and brings great energy and insight to our program." 

Why ALL IN? 

For the Eagles, it means: Attitude, Love to talk, Lock down (defensively), Invest in your teammates, and No one outworks us. Fields' focus has been developing a culture where players take accountability, make defense the priority, and put each other first.

The Eagles tip-off this Thursday, October 26th at the Clarke Classic where they will face Viterbo and Clarke. JU's home opener will be Friday, November 17th versus St. Mary of the Woods inside the Lindner Center. ALL IN.