Men's Basketball
The 2007-2008 Taylor University Fort Wayne Falcons are coming off back-to-back years where they qualified for the USCAA National Basketball Tournament. While last year's team was young, this year the Falcons will go into the season with more experienced players. Returning starters include sophomore, Trel Hogue, who was the second leading scorer last year at 17 points per game. He also led the USCAA in foul shooting percentage (83%) and was third in assists (four per game). He was selected USCAA All American for his efforts. John Yoder returns as another starter having played the guard position for two years. John scored 12 points per game making him the third leading scorer. In February of 2007, John was selected the USCAA Player of the Week. Jesse Boldt comes back with a four point per game average and a deadly three point shot. Rokas Niparavicious was hindered throughout last season with an injured knee. After an operation in December he was able to come back in February. In the short time he had to play, he was the leading offensive rebounder and ranked fifth in the USCAA at four rebounds per game. Andy Overpeck became a starter in January and held down the center position for the rest of the season. Andy should be a definite force as a center this year. Adam Zimmerman, who also is a four year starter on the TUFW soccer team will continue to give quality minutes as a guard.
Three newcomers to the program that will bring a good opportunity to be very competitive. Tyler Morningstar is an outstanding outside shooter with very good jumping ability. Tyler was a former player for Leo High School. A.J. Gooden is a two time All SAC (Summit Athletic Conference) player from Harding High school here in Fort Wayne. A.J. will bring a strong presence inside both rebounding and a nice offensive touch around the basket. Finally, Ryan Woods, a transfer who played his high school basketball at the powerhouse Lansing Everett, is quick on his feet and possesses an outstanding outside shot, both from three point range and driving to the basket.
The Falcons' schedule is one of the toughest in school history, starting off with a tournament at the University of Saint Francis. There have been several NAIA and NCAA III newcomers added to the schedule, including DePauw University, Purdue University Calumet, Trinity Christian College, Calumet College of St. Joseph, and Sienna Heights.
The team hopes to overcome the lack of height with quickness in transition and good shooting. The chemistry on this year's team is good and they look forward to a great year culminating with a trip to Portland, Maine, for the USCAA National Tournament.
