By Eric Trent
Four games into the year, one thing is certain about Peninsula men’s basketball team. They’re a different squad from last season.
After boasting the 3rd-ranked defense in the NWAC last season, the Pirates have shifted from a defensive unit, to one that’s unleashed two 95-point games.
The Pirates are averaging 12 points per game more than last season, but also giving up 9 points per game more than last season.
Despite their 2-3 record, the future looks treasure-filled for the Pirates who retain 4 starters, including their two leading scorers from last season, Deonte Dixon and Ryley Callaghan, plus a couple newcomers who are already making an impact.
The Pirates also have more depth with freshman guard Darrion Daniels who’s averaging nearly 14-points per game.
“I’m impressed by the way guys are playing right now. We still have some small areas to fix up on, and we have to improve on assist/turnover ratio. No one is selfish on our team, we just have to look on setting each other up more,” Daniels said.
Sophomore forward Dimitri Amos, who sat out all of last year, is already a difference maker on both ends of the floor, averaging nearly 12 points and over 6 rebounds a game.
“I feel like we are playing well together, so far, this season. Everybody is still getting adjusted to pace of the game and the preparation of the game, as well,” Amos said.
“We get down on ourselves when we don’t see the ball go in the basket,”
“We need to have the mentality of a shooter. If this doesn’t go in, the next one will. Once we develop that, everything will fall into place and we’ll be solid,” Amos concluded.
With six new faces on the team, the Pirates are still getting accustomed to playing together.
“We’re just trying to mesh offensively and defensively with each other, while trying to get some of our younger guys acclimated to game situations,” Sophomore forward Zach Nibler said.
The Pirates face Tacoma and South Puget Sound on December 5th and 6th.
