As the University of Wyoming men’s basketball team steps into their upcoming 2012-13 season, there are high expectations held for the team this year. The men’s team lost six seniors to graduation last year, three of whom were starters on last year’s team. However, given this year’s seniors who include Leonard Washington, Luke Martinez and Derrious Gilmore, head coach Larry Shyatt believes his team consisting of 10 other underclassmen can pull through.
“Losing six seniors and three starters may seem like a lot, but it is actually a smoother transition than last season,” Shyatt said. “At this time last year, we were teaching coaches and players an entirely new system. We have seven players returning this season that understand how we want to play at both ends, in addition to a terrific coaching staff back, so that puts us farther ahead already.”
With Washington’s return to the program after being suspended due to misconduct last season, the expectations are high for his upcoming seasons performance. Last year Washington was referred to as one of the “top big men” in the Mountain West conference. Overall he ranked top 10 in six different MW statistical categories.
Alongside Washington is Cowboy starter Martinez who is also expected to have a remarkable season this year. Martinez has had an impressive career while playing here at UW. Last year’s MW statistics show Martinez made 81 three-pointer shots during the 2011-12 season including an active streak which consisted of him making one in 29 consecutive games. With the talent brought by the dynamic duo of Martinez and Washington, the Cowboys are in position to bring a title back to Laramie this year.
“We always rely on our seniors,” Shyatt said. “We need their leadership not just on the court, but also in the game of life. These guys have an understanding of what it took to win 21 games last year and I don’t think they are satisfied to do the same this year. They want more. That’s a good quality to possess.”
The Cowboys began their practices Oct. 12 in accordance with NCAA’s rules. Coach Shyatt is making his return after guiding last season’s Cowboys to a 21-12 overall record. This was the team’s first 20-win season since 2002-03, according to Wyoming Athletics. This accomplishment additionally earned the program’s first postseason berth since 2009. The year was highlighted by a 68-66 upset of No. 11 UNLV for Wyoming’s first win over a ranked foe since 2002, according to Wyoming Athletics.
A recent preseason poll taken from the MW announced that the Cowboys were predicted to finish sixth overall in this year’s season with 70 points while opponent San Diego State was predicted to finish first with 153 points.
The team will continue to practice as they have two exhibition games coming up at the end of October in Ethete, Wyo. The team’s regular season will open Nov. 10 in the Arena Auditorium against Western State.
