Previewing the 2013-14 Men's Basketball Squad

McKeesport, Pa. - Under the direction of sixth-year head coach Clyde Manns, the 2013-14 Penn State Greater Allegheny's men's basketball team looks onward to a new season with some fresh faces to appear in the mix with the GA veterans to try and obtain their first post-season bid after three seasons of narrowly missing out.

Manns returns a PSUAC Honorable Mention student-athlete from last year, senior forward Aaron Byrd (Upper Marlboro, Md./Dr. Henry A. Wise). Byrd is a two-time All-Conference player prior to being recognized as Honorable Mention in 2012-13. He assisted his teammates last season with 22 games played, putting up 172 total rebounds and 11.5 points per game. The four-year starter leads his team as captain in his final year of competition. "The team will rely heavily on Aaron this season. I am hoping his leadership and experience will rub off on the younger players and he will contribute in large part to win games this season," said Manns.

Five additional players from last season make their way back to the lineup to boost GA's efforts as they enter the new season. Senior forward Nick Dizon (Pittsburgh, Pa./Woodland Hills) returns for his second year of Lion action, after transferring from La Roche College. "We will rely in large part to Nick's post-presence and leadership to get us through this season," said Manns about his second captain. Dizon posted 13 points per game with 147 total rebounds in 23 games played.

Third and final team captain, junior guard/forward Petrie Addison (Fort Myers, Fla./Florida Christian), comes back to the team after he completed last season as team leading scorer. "Petrie's scoring ability and creativity will be highly depended on to assist his team to continue forward in the season." Petrie averaged 6.5 rebounds in 11 games last season, dropping 17.5 points per game.

Back at the helm of the arc is sophomore starting point guard Chris Dixon (Pittsburgh, Pa./Steel Valley). "I am hoping a year under his belt will give him confidence entering his sophomore year. Dixon contributed 20 steals, 36 blocks and 6.3 points per game.

On the defensive side, Greater Allegheny will look to sophomore forward Peter Olumese (Switzerland/College du Leman) for guidance. "The team will look to Peter to uphold his high defensive ability. I would tag him as the league's best defender," said coach Manns. Peter showed his defensive abilities in all 23 games last season. 

"Sophomore guard Jordan Zeer (Victoria, British Columbia/New Westminster) brings an outside presence with his scoring ability to the table."

Freshman forward Carl London (Easton, Pa./Coatesville) will be utilized for his ability to shoot an outside jump shot. "Carl will be called upon to set something up with Nick and Chris down low and bring spark to the offense off the bench," said Manns.

Injured junior forward transfer Antawane Davis (Detroit, Mich./Benton Harbor) will help at the guard spot with his ability to shoot and penetrate the playing field. "Davis plays with a scorers mentality, which will bring great depth to our offensive drive."

Coach Manns and the Greater Allegheny boys are looking for an improved year from last season. "We have a great group of guys, who are very hard-working. Their drive will boost GA to get their season off to a good start," said Manns. "After missing the post-season the last three seasons, this team can get us back into PSUAC playoff contention.