Colonial Athletic Conference report

SportsLine report
March 14, 2000

Talk about a change in fortunes -- like from "great" to "what deity did we infuriate?" After posting a school-record for wins in 1998-99 with a 25-9 season and an NIT berth, the Monarchs struggled to find leadership and chemistry all year, recording 14 fewer victories than a season ago.

Part of the problem could be attributed to inexperience, with seven underclassmen on the roster making executing plays an excruciating experience.

The other problem was a drastic change in style from a year ago, when now-NBA center Cal Bowdler and Reggie Bassette formed a monstrous duo underneath that made teams think twice about going inside. Without those two, the Monarchs needed to rely on discipline on both ends of the court to win. They struggled with it all year.

The Coach

Coach Jeff Capel recently received a two-year extension, but it wasn't exactly a happy signing. Capel reportedly wanted a five-year deal but couldn't spring it because administrators reportedly were concerned with a losing trend in the program: His 25-9 season was sandwiched around a 12-16 year in 1997-98 and this year's disappointing season.

So Capel will be back, but the talent coming into the program suggests the Monarchs aren't quite ready to return to the glory days. Unless some miracles arise in spring recruiting, it could be another long year in Norfolk.

Who'll be Back

Andre McCullum will be back for his final season, giving the Monarchs a versatile frontcourt player who can score (12.9 ppg) and rebound (6.9 rpg). McCullum struggled early on without Bowdler and Bassette backing him up, but he turned his game around late in the year.

One player to keep an eye on is freshman Ricardo Marsh. The 6-foot-7 forward has a body similar to McCullum's with comparable athleticism. With some seasoning, Marsh could develop into a force in the CAA.

Michael Williams also returns for his final season, which is good news for the Monarchs, who lose their lead guard, Freddie Bryant, this year. Williams is a capable ball handler and decent shooter and will give ODU their most experienced presence in the backcourt.

Who's Gone

Skipper Youngblood is gone, taking with him the Monarchs' strongest inside presence. Youngblood came on in his senior year and was a strong presence on the boards, grabbing 6.4 rebounds per game. Freddie Bryant's loss will also be a shock for ODU, as he takes one of their better shooters and best ball-handler.

Key Newcomers

F-C Clay McGowen, 6-11, 205: A project, but one who will provide, at the very least, a large body beneath the hoop. Averaged 12.1 ppg and 8.5 rebounds per game as a senior.

G Janavor Weatherspoon, 6-0: An honorable mention All-American according to USA Today. Played last season at Winchendon Prep in Massachusetts but averaged 23.4 points and 6.4 rebounds as a senior in high school.