Augusta University men’s basketball Head Coach Dip Metress is on the job, according to a recently posted YouTube video.
The video shows the team’s first official basketball practice on Oct. 15 with Metress in the background. Zach Tinkham, graduate assistant coach, is also present in the background of the video.
The video features a few players speaking about their preparation in the off season and looking ahead to the season that starts in less than a month.
“Last year, we had no fans, and COVID-19 was going on,” said senior Troy Cracknell. “We have fans now, full capacity, and we have some good guys coming in as transfers. We’re going to have a great year.”
Cracknell averaged 13 points per game and posted a 46% field goal percentage last year, according to stats posted in the video.
Center Tyshun Crawford dropped 25 pounds in the off season to run the floor more efficiently, he said.
Freshman Ja’Queze Kirby said he’s “loving it.”
“I think I’m gonna be able to make something happen here in my new home,” Kirby said, a transfer from Murray State.
The Jaguars open the season Nov. 12 at Barton College and play their home opener on Nov. 23 against Benedict College.
Tyler Strong is the Business Editor for The Augusta Press. Reach him at tyler@theaugustapress.com
