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It was nice to see basketball again in the Alfond Arena, as the University of Maine men’s basketball team showed athleticism and promise for the upcoming season, defeating Fisher College by a score of 91-45 in a Sunday exhibition match.
The Black Bears started the game with three seniors in the backcourt and a sophomore and junior at the forward positions. The game proved to be a good opportunity for the team to work together, playing and ironing out any kinks.
“The key word is chemistry today,” said senior guard Gerald McLemore. “It was a great chance for people to play together and for the freshmen to be in a game-like situation.
UMaine’s leading scorer was freshman guard Justin Edwards. The Canadian recruit had 16 points, three assists and four rebounds in 19 minutes of play.
The most impressive part of Edwards’ game was his unbelievable athleticism. He continually impressed the crowd with his leaping ability, including a highlight-reel-worthy block off the glass.
“I was a little bit nervous, but after a couple of minutes I was comfortable playing with the team,” Edwards said. “Everyone was supporting me, and we have great leaders.
UMaine showed impressive depth at the guard positions. The team started seniors McLemore, Andrew Rogers and Raheem Singleton, with Edwards coming off the bench as well as exciting freshman Noam Laish — the Israeli native who finished with six points and three assists.
“I am excited about this team,” said UMaine head coach Ted Woodward. “They get better every day and half of our roster is freshmen.”
The key to the development of the freshmen is the senior leadership, he said.
“They are doing a great job helping us out,” Woodward said. “I can’t say enough about the leadership from the older guys.”
The senior guards showed their experience, controlling the tempo and running the offense smoothly. Rogers and Singleton combined for nine assists and McLemore showed off his stroke, hitting four 3-pointers on his way to 14 points.
Sophomore center Alasdair Fraser made his presence felt, scoring eight points on 4-7 shooting and grabbing four rebounds. Fraser showed improvement in the offseason with quick spin moves and a great shot selection, two things lacking in his game a year ago. The big man can finish around the rim with a soft touch.
The other starting forward, junior Mike Allison, put on his construction hat and went to work. Allison was constantly cleaning the glass, tallying 16 rebounds, and went to the charity stripe 15 times.
Allison has some big shoes to fill this season, stepping into the role of graduated forward Troy Barnies.
“It is nice to have my chance to step up,” Allison said. “I know Troy had a phenomenal year last year. I think Ally [Fraser] and I are going to be stepping up this year and be able to take care of business.”
Fisher was led by Dennis Norford with 16 points and 12 rebounds.
UMaine out-rebounded Fisher 57 to 35 and only turned the ball over 10 times compared to Fisher’s 21.
The Black Bears return to action this Saturday when they take on the University of Ottawa in their final exhibition before the regular season commences. The game takes place in the Pit. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.
Bangor Daily News