As the first basketball games of the season draw closer, Northwestern’s men’s and women’s teams are equally eager to get on the court and start watching their hard work pay off.
After a 25-8 record last season, the Raider men will do all they can to give themselves a shot at returning to the NAIA National Tournament in the spring.
“Preparing to be at your best when your best is needed is something we learned last season,” said Head Coach Kris Korver. “We were reminded of how important it is for each person to be a ‘star’ in their role for the team.”
With a mix of proven quality returners and gifted newcomers, each individual will be expected to give all they can offer in their position for the good of the team.
The Raiders know the season will throw some tough opponents and obstacles their way.
Many people look at adversity as something to avoid, but coach Korver encourages the Raiders to embrace it, with a mentality that “adversity is a chance to show off,” requiring teammates to come together and endure the challenge.
On the women’s side, the season holds great promise as well. Coming off their 19-12 record, all their rotation players are set to return, which includes six seniors.
This experience within the team will be key in tackling one of the toughest schedules in several years. There are four other GPAC teams ranked in the top 25, as well as three non-conference teams they will play against.
“Despite sustaining quite a few injuries last season, we were able to develop and gain experience in a variety of positions,” said Head Coach Kristin Rotert. “We had a very productive offseason and have returned a group that is highly motivated and competitive. We will have more depth this year and previous seasons and hope to capitalize on that.”
Like the men’s team, the women aim to do big things in the GPAC regular season, followed by competing for the conference championship and beyond.
To attain these goals, Rotert said, “We hope to bring a fast and physical style of play, combined with great balance and ball movement on the offensive end of the floor.”
Both opening games are on Nov. 1 in the Bultman Center, where the women will face Oregon Tech and the men will take on Tabor College.
