On a warm July afternoon, the SIUE men's basketball squad gathered at First Community Arena in Edwardsville for a public open practice that drew a modest but enthusiastic crowd. The 75‑minute session was designed not only to showcase the team's summer progress but also to reinforce the culture Coach Brian Barone has been cultivating since his arrival.
Barone stressed that the foundation of this year's squad lies in three pillars: pace, organization, and a family atmosphere. "We want our players to feel the rhythm of the game while staying disciplined in their roles," he said, noting that the staff had built a set of habits that will carry over into the regular season.
The drill work reflected that philosophy. Players moved through shooting circuits, dribbling sequences, and small‑sided games that emphasized tempo and decision‑making under pressure. The fast‑break drills were especially vivid, with the team sprinting up and down the court in a fluid, almost rehearsed motion.
The roster blends experience with fresh faces. Seven athletes from the previous 19‑13 campaign return, including standout scorer Tyler King, who averaged 9.9 points per game last year, and versatile forward Jordan Pickett. Alongside them, newcomers such as David Wilson, Gianni Cobb, Kain McCaskill, Gestin Liberis, Brennan Miller, Jacob Martin, and Jayden Riley are already absorbing the team's system.
A Schedule That Tests Early
Beyond the summer workouts, the Cougars have lined up a challenging non‑conference slate. Highlights include a November 9 showdown with the University of Missouri, a December 2 clash against Indiana State, and a much‑anticipated meeting with Duke later in the season. These games will serve as early gauges of how quickly the team can translate its summer gains into competitive play.
Barone praised the squad's receptiveness during the practice, noting that the players "listen, execute, and ask the right questions" when presented with new concepts. That willingness to adapt, he believes, will be crucial as the team navigates a demanding schedule and aims to improve on last season's 12‑8 Ohio Valley Conference record.
With the support of the Edwardsville community echoing through the arena, the Cougars left the court with a clear sense of purpose. The open practice was more than a public relations stunt; it was a tangible step toward building the chemistry and habits that could propel SIUE back to the NCAA Tournament and beyond.