Basketball Preview 2012-13

OLD GOLD & BLACK

WAKE FOREST

BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2012-13

A look at the revamped 2012-13 Demon Deacon basketball teams Graphic by Matt Poppe and Aaron Colston/Old Gold & Black All photos by Jeremy Hefter and John Turner/Old Gold & Black

Page 10 | Thursday, November 8, 2012

Old Gold & Black | Basketball Preview

New look Deacons will rely heavily on youth

BY MATT POPPE Online Managing Editor poppmw9@wfu.edu

There’s a new look, new goal and a new attitude for the 2012-13 men’s basketball team.

After two less than stellar seasons filled with disappointment and unfulfilled visions of success, the Demon Deacons are looking to turn things around and bring Wake basketball back to the top of the ACC. After multiple transfers and dismissals last season, this year’s squad was in need of players to fill many holes in the roster. The Deacs have attempted to fill these gaps with an impressive freshman class of seven standout players from across the country.

The team will look on the newcomers to make in immediate impact, particularly guards like Codi Miller-McIntyre and Madison Jones.

The two were well known around the state of North Carolina, as they were standouts at their respective high schools in Concord and Raleigh. They will boost the Deacon backcourt, which will face tough challenges all season, particularly during conference play.

Wake will, however, return its two leading scorers from last season in senior C.J. Harris and junior Travis McKie. Harris returns for his final season at Wake after a stellar junior season in which he was fourth in the ACC in scoring at 16.7 points per game. The Winston-Salem native will bring not only his scoring ability to the floor, but his leadership and versatility that will be valuable on such a young team.

McKie will be one of the biggest keys to the Deacs’ success this season as he brings McKie a scoring and rebounding presence that is nearly unmatched in the ACC. McKie scored just over 16 point per game last season, and his athleticism and strength will cause many matchup problems for opponents in the coming year.

Another fundamental part of the Wake offense will be sophomore Chase Fischer. The 6-foot-3 guard is a pure shooter that showed glimpses of greatness during his freshman campaign.

The Deacons will look for his shooting stroke to propel them this season. Fischer has worked on his shot release this offseason and has bulked up a great deal since last year. He will be looking to exploit defenses with this quicker shot and his better ability to get to the rim.

Photo courtesy of John Turner

Senior C.J. Harris will look to lead the Demon Deacons on the court this season. The 6-foot-3 guard received third team All-ACC honors last season after scoring 16.7 points per game.

Overall, the Deacons will bring a team to the floor that is leaps and bound ahead of that which took the floor last season, but the challenge will be to get the youthful team up to speed in one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.

The challenge will again be to compete with the powerhouses like North Carolina and Duke, but with the athleticism of this team and the offensive potential of the returning players, the Deacons bring an attitude that believes they could win against any opponent this season.

2012-2013 Roster

Codi Miller-McIntyre — Guard —FR Madison Jones — Guard —FR Devin Thomas — Forward —FR Daniel Green — Forward —SO Chase Fischer — Guard — SO C.J. Harris — Guard —SR Travis McKie — Forward — JR Andre Washington — Center — FR Aaron Rountree III — Forward — FR Tyler Cavanaugh — Forward — FR Dan Walsworth — Guard — FR Duke Antonelli — Guard — FR Spencer Jennings — Guard — SR Arnaud William Adala Moto — Forward — FR Grant O’Brien — Forward — FR Doug Niedrich — Forward — SO

Head coach Jeff Bzdelik, in the final year of his three-year contract, has worked diligently with the rest of the coaching staff to recruit a team that will perform on the court, as well as off the court, as the team has experienced issues with players in the past two seasons. But optimism is high this season as there is an evident change in team character and a group of players that seem much more focused and on the same page.

The sky is the limit with this team if they can capitalize on their new talent and overcome youthful mistakes.

Quick Facts

2011-12 record: 13-18 2011-12 ACC record/finish: 4-12/Ninth Returning starters: 2 Years of basketball: 106 Winning seasons: 64 All-time record: 1848-1358-22 (.576) ACC Championships: 4 (1961, 1962, 1995, 1996) NCAA Tournament Appearances: 22

Basketball Preview | Old Gold & Black

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | Page 11

Bzdelik leads young team

BY TY KRANIAK Sports Editor krantr11@wfu.edu

If there is one thing head coach Jeff Bzdelik is looking for, it is good basketball players.

However, Bzdelik’s interpretation of a “good” basketball player extends far beyond performance on the court and even reaches into the community.

It is no secret that Wake Forest has had a somewhat challenging past with basketball players finding trouble and being dismissed from the university, but Bzdelik has hope that this culture will change at Wake. He has reason to believe so.

With a top-tier recruiting class full of upstanding young men, the development of leaders such as senior C.J. Harris and junior Travis McKie, new uniforms, a new paint job at the Joel and time for Bzdelik to settle in his new home at Wake, the Deacs are headed in the right direction under “Buzz.”

“We have a lot of depth, renewed energy and talent,” Bzdelik said.

“We are very excited for where we are at right now. The practices are energetic and competitive, which brings the best from the kids.”

Bzdelik, now in his third year at the helm of the Deacons, owns a 21-42 record with the Deacons.

Previously, Bzdelik held head coaching jobs with the Denver Nuggets, the University of Colorado at Boulder and Air Force. But, while the record at Wake may appear a sign of rebuilding, what many do not realize is it takes time to break in a new philosophy and a new culture regarding the game.

“We are not going to compromise our values, but we will do the right thing and stay true to our principles,” Bzdelik said.

Yet while a clean-run program is a top-priority for Bzdelik, he also understands the importance of winning.

“We want a winning season, and we’ll see where it takes us,” he said.

2012-13 Coaching Staff Jeff Battle Associate Head Coach 12th season

Rusty LaRue Assistant Coach Fourth Season

Walt Corbean Assistant Coach Sixth season Photo courtesy of John Turner

Jeff Bzdelik, the 21st coach in Wake Forest history, has accrued a 21-42 record in two seasons at the helm of the Demon Deacons.

BY MATT POPPE Online Managing Editor poppmw9@wfu.edu

C.J. Harris Guard

BY MAX WOHLMUTH Sports Editor wohlmj11@wfu.edu Senior C.J. Harris is back and ready for the upcoming season. Last year’s leading scorer and leading three-point shooter is back for his final campaign with the Demon Deacons. Although questions emerged if Harris would leave for the NBA, he said the notion never crossed his mind.

“It’s just a school I committed to,” Harris said. “Coming out of high school, I wanted to play for Wake Forest. Since it was my dream to play for Wake Forest, I didn’t want to change it.”

Not only is Harris excited to be back on the court, but he wants to return to the success he was able to experience during the 2009-10 season.

“I’ve been wanting to get back to the winning circle since my freshman year,” Harris said.

During the that season, Wake posted a 20-10 record, defeating No. 8 seeded Texas in the first round before losing to No. 1 seed Kentucky in the second.

“I will always remember that. I tell the guys all the time that my freshman year was great. Being in the NCAA tournament is unreal,” he said.

With his experience, he knows how hard a team has to work in order to win games and make the tournament. “[The seniors] knew what it took to finish tough games,” Harris said. “That’s something I’ve kept with me throughout the years.”

Harris is ready to lead the team and the new freshman class in the right direction.

“They are just as anxious as I am to get back out on the court. We’re all excited.”

Wake fans should look forward to the upcoming season knowing that C.J. Harris will be giving his 100 percent on the court in bringing the Demon Deacons back to their past successes.

Birthdate: 02/19/1991 Class: Senior Hometown: WinstonSalem, N.C. Height: 6-3 Weight: 190 Major: Communication

Senior Spencer Jennings, a non-scholarship player, has been with the Demon Deacons for three seasons now and has seen immense changes in the basketball problem.

However, this year he is more than optimistic about the squad and the changes it has undergone.

“There is definitely a big difference this year as compared to last year,” Jennings said.

“We’ve got a lot of new guys. Last year we only had three freshmen. I would say the biggest change I see is the team chemistry in the locker room.”

“Last year, on and off the court, you didn’t really see the camaraderie and guys getting along as well as they do this year.

It’s definitely more of a family environment this year.”

Jennings is one of just two seniors this season (besides C.J. Harris), and his experience and knowledge will be invaluable to this young Deacon squad.

The Midland, Mich., native transferred to Wake in 2010 after formerly playing for Division III Albion College.

Now in his final year at the university, he is looking forward to a renewed passion from the fans and hopes to return to Wake Forest’s winning ways.

“I’m really hoping that this year we can get the students out there,” Jennings said.

“I know the last couple of years has been tough for everybody, not winning games and the students not coming out. I’m hoping we can get that fan support and get the Joel rocking again.”

Above all, the 6-1 guard looks to make the most of his opportunity here at Wake.

“With me being a senior, every game is a chance to really savor and enjoy the moment,” he said.

Birthdate: 05/21/1991 Class: Senior Hometown: Midland, Mich.

Height: 6-1 Weight: 180 Major: Communication

Spencer Jennings Guard

Page 12 | Thursday, November 8, 2012

BY LUCAS SMITH Contributing Writer smitlk11@wfu.edu

Travis McKie Forward

BY TY KRANIAK Sports Editor krantr11@wfu.edu After emerging as not only one of the top players on Wake Forest, but as one of the most athletic forwards in the ACC, junior Travis McKie has reason to believe he may improve further during his junior year with the Demon Deacons.

The 6-foot-7 forward who weighs in at 200 pounds ranks 12th of all-time among all Demon Deacons in rebounds per game.

His average, which includes his freshman and sophomore years, stands at 7.3 rebounds per game.

McKie’s rebounding will continue to be a necessity for the Deacons as they are hoping to have a stronger presence inside the paint this season.

“Mentally, I know the game a lot better,” McKie said.

“As a team, we are young, but our goal is to be competitive and win every game.”

More so than just developing athletic skills on the court, McKie has emerged as one of the leaders on the team. Leaders will certainly be needed with the large number of freshmen on the team.

“Travis is a young man who was very productive in the past for us, and he is learn-

ing how to become a leader,” Bzdelik said about McKie. It is very likely that McKie will be one of the Deacons’ top point scorers and with this experience, he will be a key to maintaining a stingy defense to shut down powerhouses such as Duke and Carolina.

Lately, Duke and North Carolina have had their way with Wake, but McKie and his teammates are hoping to return Wake Forest to its glory days when wins over North Carolina and Duke were commonplace.

“We are reminded every day of the tradition here at Wake, and it is our goal to uphold it,” McKie said.

the ball makes him an intricate part of our plans.”

Despite being in just his second season at Wake, Fischer was named a team captain and his leadership qualities show in his idea of what the team needs to do this season.

“The first thing we need to do is to defend,” Fischer said.

“That’s the basis of any good basketball team. Also, we just need to come together as a team. We’ve got seven freshman and only four returning players so we’ve just got to gel. I think we have been doing that really well so far. We’ve got to come together and buy-in to a common goal: winning.”

Birthdate: 02/03/1993 Class: Sophomore Hometown: Ripley, W. Va. Height: 6-3 Weight: 195 Major: Undeclared

Green motivated himself to work hard in the gym during the offseason in order to add bulk. With this added weight, the forward hopes to improve his inside presence, something the team lost with the departure of four year letterman Ty Walker.

“The main thing I had to work on this summer was getting stronger, that was one of the big keys the coaches wanted to see me improve in the months ahead,” Green said.

Green and the Demon Deacons are trying to forget a disappointing season, which saw the team finish with a 13-18 overall record, and only claiming four wins in ACC play.

Birthdate: 10/20/1992 Class: Sophomore Hometown: Colleyville, Texas Height: 6-10 Weight: 220 Major: Undeclared

Daniel Green Forward

BY ROB SAWYER Staff Writer sawyrs11@wfu.edu

Guard

Great shooters have often been a part of Wake Forest’s basketball success, and sophomore Chase Fischer looks to be the next in a long line of Deacons in that role.

The 6-foot-3 guard played in all 31 games last season and gained precious experience during his freshman season.

“There is nothing like experience, and he gained that valuable experience playing almost 24 minutes a game last season,” head coach Jeff Bzdelik said.

Fischer, however, used the offseason to improve on his skills and bulk up.

“I’ve really tried to improve my foot speed and getting my shot off faster because at this level I learned that you have to be able to get your shot off really quickly,” Fischer said.

“I also got in the weight room a lot and put on a lot of weight.”

Fischer’s offseason work was also evident to the coaching staff.

“Chase has really worked hard this summer,” Bzdelik said.

“You can definitely tell. He has gotten a heck of a lot stronger. This along with his ability to shoot the basketball and pass

No player may have been looking forward to this season more than sophomore Daniel Green. Last year as a true freshman, Green was still able to average 1.4 points and 1.7 rebounds a game in limited action.

Even with this young Demon Deacon team, which features seven freshmen, the forward still has high expectations for the team in what one would call a “rebuilding” year.

“I would think that my expectations for this team would be to make it to the NCAA tournament,” Green said.

Green also expects take on a much greater leadership role in the future, both on and off the court. With a very tough non-conference schedule this year, Green knows that his increased role will be important in helping this inexperienced team through the adversity they will face during the year.

“I expect to take on a much larger leadership role this year,” Green said. “There are a lot of players who can contribute different pieces to the game, and it will be our job to show the new freshmen the ropes.”

With the graduation of last year’s seniors coupled with the transfers of key players,

Birthdate: 10/23/1992 Class: Junior Hometown: Richmond, Va. Height: 6-7 Weight: 220 Major: Communication

Chase Fischer

BY MATT POPPE Online Managing Editor poppmw9@wfu.edu

Old Gold & Black | Basketball Preview

Sophomore forward Doug Niedrich is one of six returning players for the Demon Deacons. Niedrich was a walk-on to the basketball team last season and embraced his role as a scout team player.

Back in his hometown of Lincolnshire, Ill., Niedrich earned four varsity letters at Adlai E. Stevenson High School and a trip to the regional championship.

Niedrich only appeared in one game last season in the win at Boston College, but his role is more in the preparation for games. He is a key member of the scout team, which involves watching video of future opponents to mimic their games in practice.

“Duke is my favorite team to scout, because I get to be Ryan Kelly and shoot threes all day,” Niedrich said.

“Being on the scout team is very time consuming, but is also very fun.”

During the offseason, he worked mostly on cardio and strength, trying to adapt his body to the speed of the college game.

“I only gained 10 pounds of muscle but it will help me compete with my teammates in practice better.”

This season, Niedrich is looking forward most to the North Carolina game at UNC. “North Carolina was my favorite team growing up and I can’t wait to play in the Dean Dome,” Niedrich said.

Niedrich believes the team goals for this season are to continue to improve as their record last season was better than the year before. He believes the incoming talent will help the team cope with the losses from last season’s transfers.

While he may not get the most playing time, Niedrich’s role on the team is important in preparing the team to play against the grueling ACC schedule the team endures each year.

Birthdate: 10/05/1992 Class: Sophomore Hometown: Kildeer, Ill. Height: 6-6 Weight: 200 Major: Undeclared

Doug Niedrich Forward

Basketball Preview | Old Gold & Black

BY MIKE ZAVAGNO Staff Writer zavamd11@wfu.edu In head coach Jeff Bzdelik’s third year at Wake Forest, the men’s basketball team is finally beginning to create an identity. The 2012-13 squad is young, featuring two seniors, one junior and 10 underclassmen, including seven freshmen, who came together to form the No. 21 recruiting class in the nation, according to ESPN. As a native of Wilson, N.C., freshman forward Aaron Rountree understands that Wake Forest basketball represents something more than the below-.500 team that has taken the court in the first two seasons of Bzdelik’s tenure.

“I want to be a part of bringing [Wake Forest] back to national prominence where it should be,” Rountree said.

In order to return the Deacs to the ranks of the basketball elite, Rountree and his fellow freshmen must re-shape the culture of Wake Forest hoops into one in which every player fills a defined role in the court.

Rountree’s role is one of versatility.

“I just try to be versatile and try to have a positive impact in whatever way Coach [Bzdelik] asks me to,” the 6-foot-8, 190-pound freshman said. “I don’t really

see myself as a strict one position player.

I just try to be positive and give my best every day.”

The ACC presents a challenge for any young team and the ‘Baby Deacs’ are no exception. However, through the formation of chemistry and the understanding of roles, this Wake Forest team is primed for success, something that has been lacking since former head coach Dino Gaudio was handed a one-way ticket out of Winston Salem. When asked of his goals for the team this year, Rountree smiled.

“Just to win,” Rountree said. “I try to keep progressing and getting better every day as an individual and, most importantly, as a team.”

Birthdate: 12/01/1993 Class: Freshman Hometown: Wilson, N.C. Height: 6-8 Weight: 190 Major: Undeclared

Aaron Rountree III Forward

BY MILES LAYMAN Contributing Writer laymmd12@wfu.edu Standing at 6-foot-1 and a nimble 165 pounds, freshman Madison Jones looks like a kid next to the towering presence of other recruits like Andre Washington (7’0’’) and Devin Thomas (6’9’’) as he jogs onto the court during the opening ceremony of Black and Gold Madness.

However, Jones will likely play some of Wake’s most important minutes this season, trading time with fellow freshman Codi Miller-McIntyre, the only other true point guard for the Demon Deacons this season.

Jones is coming off a career year on the court. While averaging 16.5 PPG, 6.5 APG and 3.4 SPG, he ended his senior year at Ravenscroft by taking them to the NCISAA championship and leading his team to a 64-52 win while scoring 22 points.

In April, then ranked as the best point guard still available among the 2012 NCAA recruits, he committed to Wake Forest along with six other players as part of a core of skilled freshman the team will need to have perform well all season.

With only one junior and two seniors on the 2012 roster, it’s no secret the Demon

Deacons will have to rely on a very young squad to deliver in the minutes they are given. Jones and his teammates seem to be well aware of this.

“I’ll be playing a big role as a point guard along with Codi [Miller-McIntyre], and we have to step up and play well as freshman,” Jones said when asked about his role this season.

As the team puts on a scrimmage for the students packed into Reynolds Gym, Jones is fearless, a smile on his face as he slashes into the lane and jumps passing routes on defense.

“I’m just looking forward to playing with these guys every day and getting better together,” he said.

Birthdate: 10/20/1993 Class: Freshman Hometown: Raleigh, N.C. Height: 6-1 Weight: 165 Major: Undeclared

Madison Jones Guard

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | Page 13

Codi MillerMcIntyre Guard

BY MAX WOHLMUTH Sports Editor wohlmj11@wfu.edu In an attempt to begin recreating the image of the Wake Forest basketball, six new faces have joined the team. At the helm of the recruiting class is point guard Codi Miller-McIntyre.

The North Carolina native believes he is ready to take on the challenges of the ACC. He explained that his older teammates, such as C.J. Harris, have been filling him in on what it’s like playing against Duke or UNC-Chapel Hill.

“It’s a whole other ballgame,” Miller-McIntyre said.

“I have to be ready for anything and practice hard. I have to get comfortable. The practices and workouts we have will only help me out in the future.”

Miller-McIntyre sees his strengths in his ability to get to the hoop, a strength that all teams want from their point guard.

At 6-foot-3, 195 pounds, he has the size and strength to find his way to basket and score. This is reminiscent of former Demon Deacon and current NBA point guard Chris Paul, who Miller-McIntyre sees as a player he both looks up to and compares himself to.

As a freshman, Mill-McIntyre also realizes that nothing will come easy as a freshman here at Wake Forest.

“They told us nobody is going to take it easy on us because we are freshman,” Miller-McIntyre said. “We have to play hard every time with a chip on our shoulders.”

Miller-McIntyre has been working hard and wants to ready to contribute on the floor from the day the season begins.

Hopefully, this new face in the Atlantic Coast Conference is on his way to becoming a rising star and leading Wake Forest in becoming an NCAA title contender once again. Hopefully, Miller-McIntyre and the rest of the freshman class can kickstart a new era of Demon Deacon basketball.

Birthdate: 06/01/1994 Class: Freshman Hometown: Concord, N.C. Height: 6-3 Weight: 195 Major: Undeclared

Devin Thomas Forward

BY MIKE McLAUGHLIN Staff Writer mclamj12@wfu.edu There is a lot more to Devin Thomas’ game than the YouTube sensation, backboard breaking dunk that landed him the top spot on the Sportcenter’s Top Plays.

“I haven’t watched that video since March of last year,” Thomas said. “That dunk is not going to help me in the future.”

When asked what else besides athleticism he would bring to the team, Thomas said, “I have a low post presence, I have good footwork, been working on my right hand, a hook shot, knowing where to be at the right time, and rebounding; a true low post player.”

Last year, as a senior at Central Dauphin High School, Thomas led his team to the state semifinals, where they lost. Along the way, Thomas earned his second consecutive first team Class AAAA all-state selection while averaging 23.8 points per game and 13.9 rebounds per game.

Thomas, known for the energy he brings to the court, has hopes of using his 6-foot9, 235-pound frame to provide the Deacons with a spark.

When asked where that intensity comes from, Thomas said, “I know you want me

to say my sister, she beat me up a little bit.”

His sister, Alyssa Thomas, is a member of the Maryland Women’s Basketball Team, and also the 2011-12 ACC Player of the Year.

However, before Thomas can take the court, he has to make sure his knee is completely healed from arthroscopic surgery.

Thomas, who feels “85-90” percent better, tweaked the knee during a workout but feels he should be “full go in two weeks.”

Thomas, though, is excited about the opportunity to play early. “It’s one of the main reasons I am here right now, because Coach Bzdelik told all of us that if we came in and worked hard, that we had a chance to play, not that it was promised,” he said.

Birthdate: 05/17/1994 Class: Freshman Hometown: Harrisburg, Pa. Height: 6-9 Weight: 240 Major: Undeclared

Page 14 | Thursday, November 8, 2012

BY NICK WELDON Staff Writer weldnr11@wfu.edu

Tyler Cavanaugh Forward

BY CARR CODY Staff Writer codycc12@wfu.edu Amidst a solid freshman class, 6-foot-9 power forward Tyler Cavanaugh hopes to bring new energy into Wake Forest basketball following a lackluster year, in which the school finished 4-12 in ACC play.

“Our goal is to win ACC games,” Cavanaugh said. “With the veterans we have like C.J. (Harris), Chase (Fischer) and Travis (McKie), I believe we have the talent and leadership to make that happen.”

Cavanaugh, hailing from Dewitt, N.Y., fills a similar role to his high school years.

“I played the 4 (power forward), in high school, yet often Coach values versatility in games,” Cavanaugh said.

“Our gameplay involves lots of players moving around in certain schemes, based around our offensive and defensive strengths.”

Cavanaugh believes that though the college game is “a definitely an adjustment due to the speed of the game,” he praises the coaches for making the process fairly smooth.

“I am excited about playing in college, especially in the ACC,” Cavanaugh said. “I am ready to be out there on the court.”

As a member of the seven freshmen in the Demon Deacon lineup, Cavanaugh claims that they will figure heavily into the game plan this year.

“Every freshman has different talents, and with seven of 11 scholarship athletes being freshmen, we are expected to make plays,” said Cavanaugh. “Our goal is to help out the other players.”

Cavanaugh hopes to use his size, strength, and impressive shooting ability to win games for the Demon Deacons in the upcoming season.

“I want to do anything to win games, rebounding, scoring, defense and anything else I’m asked to do.”

Birthdate: 02/09/1994 Class: Freshman Hometown: Dewitt, N.Y. Height: 6-9 Weight: 230 Major: Undeclared

Arnaud William Adala Moto Forward

BY TYLER KUKLA Staff Writer kukltj12@wfu.edu Wake Forest’s first basketball player out of Cameroon, 6-foot-6 freshman forward Arnaud William Adala Moto could be one of the team’s most versatile players this year.

Although his height is only average for the Demon Deacons, Adala Moto’s wingspan is the third longest on the team. But that’s not what makes him a standout.

Adala Moto grew up playing soccer in Cameroon, and brought this skill to Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where he earned two varsity letters.

“I think [my soccer background] helps me a lot,” Adala Moto said. “I have pretty decent footwork and soccer definitely helped me with that.”

On top of his basketball and soccer careers, Adala Moto also lettered twice in track and field at Episcopal, where he competed in the high jump.

Despite such an impressive athletic background, the transition from high school to collegiate basketball was still demanding.

“It’s been a lot of adjustment,” Adala Moto said, referring to his change of pace at Wake Forest. “Now, even at practice, you can’t take a play off. It’s been great.”

Old Gold & Black | Basketball Preview

Adala Moto arrived at Wake Forest as one of the seven freshmen to join the Demon Deacons this year. First year players alone make up more than half of the team’s 2012-2013 lineup.

“The energy [the freshmen] bring on the court is unbelievable,” Adala Moto said, who describes his experience as one of the “Spectacular Seven” freshman as “amazing.”

On top of the energy and athleticism that Adala Moto brings to this Wake Forest team, his experience playing in Cameroon has also taught him the aggression that makes him successful around the rim, and the precision to step back and sink 3-pointers.

Birthdate: 06/24/1993 Class: Freshman Hometown: Yaounde, Cameroon Height: 6-6 Weight: 225 Major: Undeclared

The only true 7-footer on the men’s basketball team, freshman Andre Washington is primed and ready to play some big minutes under the rim.

Washington, a graduate of Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Va., should see a good deal of playing time this season with the departure of the team’s top three big men from last year.

“That’s definitely a positive thing about coming here,” Washington said. “I’m also looking to learn a lot from some of the older guys on the team.”

The Roanoke, Va. native was ranked as a three star recruit by rivals.com, and as the No. 14 center in the state of Virginia. After averaging 14 points and 10 rebounds in 2010-11 for Roanoke Catholic, Washington transferred to Hargrave where he led the Tigers to a 38-1 record and a No. 2 national ranking.

He is joined at Wake Forest by fellow Hargrave teammate Codi Miller-McIntyre, another freshman.

Washington is excited to bring some fresh energy to a team that lacked explosive play last year.

“I’m really looking forward to it all and having some fun with my teammates.”

Though Wake Forest finished just 4-12 in the ACC last year, the team did play well against both Duke and North Carolina at the Joel Coliseum.

Washington is very excited to get out there and play against top ACC competition.

“It’s going to be crazy playing those teams,” Washington said.

“Last year I was just watching the games at home on television, but now I have the chance to prove myself against them.”

In the talented ACC, Washington has plenty to prove in his first year.

Birthdate: 06/02/1993 Class: Freshman Hometown: Roanoke, Va. Height: 7-0 Weight: 220 Major: Undeclared

Andre Washington Center

BY MAX WOHLMUTH Sports Editor wohlmj11@wfu.edu On University Parkway, the home of the women’s and men’s basketball teams houses more than 14,000 fans. Opening on August 28, 1989, the LJVM Coliseum has hosted events such as the first and second rounds of the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship in 1993, 1997, 2000 and 2007.

Along with the many events that have occurred at the Joel, some amazing players have also graced the Joel’s floor as members of the Demon Deacons. Chris Paul, a now point guard for the Los Angeles Clippers, ran the offense for the Deacs from 200305.

Likewise, current San Antonio Spurs forward and future NBA Hall-of-Famer Tim Duncan once roamed the paint for Wake Forest.

However, the Joel hosts far more than just basketball games for the Demon Dea-

cons. High school basketball tournaments are also held at the LJVM Coliseum, such as the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Western Regional Basketball Tournament. The NCHSAA Western Regional has been held annually at the Joel beginning in 2003.

The Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum has also held a number of concerts as well as wrestling matches in it’s time in Winston-Salem.

Billy Joel, Elton John, and Jay-Z have all visited the LJVM Coliseum during their musical careers.

Even further, President Barack Obama stopped at the Joel as a campaign stop.

Former president George W. Bush also stopped by to give a speech on Homeland Security at LJVM. All in all, the Joel has seen some memorable events and a number of well-known figures in its 23 year history and shall continue to bring excitement to Winston-Salem. Stop by the Joel this year to catch a few games for the Deacs’ 2013 season.

Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Basketball Preview | Old Gold & Black

Thursday, November 8, 2012 | Page 15

Women’s squad looks to build on last season New women’s head coach Jen Hoover will look to bring success to the Demon Deacons after having a standout career for Wake over two decades ago

BY TY KRANIAK Sports Editor krantr11@wfu.edu

In her first year at the helm of the Wake Forest women’s basketball team, head coach Jen Hoover will look to build off of her success at High Point where she lead the team to a 20-13 record and a spot in the Women’s National Invitational Tournament.

Before this, Hoover was a legend in Winston-Salem. As a member of Wake Forest’s class of 1991, she was the only Deacon to ever have 1,000 career points in addition to securing 1,000 rebounds. She is now a member of Wake Forest Athletic’s Hall of Fame.

Hoover replaces former Deacon coach Mike Petersen, who resigned as head coach of Wake Forest after last season. Petersen is now coaching at North Texas. Petersen compiled the most successful tenure ever with the Deacons, which included an eight year stint and a 125-123 record.

This season, Hoover will still be working with a lot of Petersen’s former recruits who have flourished at Wake Forest.

The Deacons will be heavily reliant on talent from the upperclassmen on the team with just one freshman and three sophomores.

Wake Forest will look to juniors Chelsea Douglas and Lindsy Wright and seniors Lakevia Boykin, Sandra Garcia and Asia Williams to lead the team.

With such stiff competition in their conference, Wake Douglas Forest was picked to finish ninth in the ACC. The Demon Deacons will have the challenge of facing a No. 3 Duke team twice this season (both at the Joel as well as at Cameron Indoor).

In addition to this, Wake Forest will face Big East opponent No. 2 Connecticut in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Thanksgiving evening, Nov. 22. The Huskies are commandeered by one of the greatest coaches of all time, Geno Auriemma, who is in his 27th season at the helm of UConn.

To add to the difficulty of schedule, Wake Forest has a date in College Park, Md., against a No. 5 Maryland Terrapins team. Are these tough games?

Yes. But, the beauty of college basketball is that anyone can win at any given time.

While Wake Forest will need to play extremely well to remain competitive in a cutthroat conference, they certainly have the senior leadership that is needed for these sorts of runs.

The Deacs already crushed Anderson by a score of 88-53 in an exhibition game Oct. 29 at the Joel. The offensive was explosive, and Wake Forest will need that moving forward as a key to success this year.

The Deacons will begin their regular season campaign at 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Joel Coliseum when the Coppin State Eagles visit Winston-Salem.

2012-2013 Roster Chelsea Douglas — Guard — JR Patrice Johnson — Guard — RS SR Mykala Walker — Forward — SR Susie Webster — Forward — SO Millesa Calicott — Guard — SO Sandra Garcia — Center — SR Lakevia Boykin — Guard — SR Christelle Shembo — Forward — FR Dearica Hamby — Forward — SO Lindsy Wright — Center — JR Asia Williams — Guard — SR Kandice Ball — Forward — FR

Photo courtesy of John Turner

Senior Lakevia Boykin led the Deacons in scoring during the 2011-12 season with 12.2 points per game. She also earned honorable mention All-ACC honors.

Quick Facts

2011-12 record: 20-14 2011-12 ACC record/finish: 7-9/Seventh Returning starters: 3 Years of basketball: 41 Winning seasons: 11 All-time record: 477-608 (.440) NIT Appearances: 4 NCAA Tournament Appearances: 1

2012-13 Men’s Basketball Schedule Date Nov. 9 Nov. 16 Nov. 23 Nov. 27 Dec. 1 Dec. 5 Dec. 8 Dec. 18 Dec. 22 Jan. 2 Jan. 5 Jan. 9 Jan. 12 Jan. 15

Opponent Radford at Connecticut William & Mary Nebraska at Richmond High Point Seton Hall Furman at UNC-Greensboro Xavier at Duke Virginia Boston College at Clemson

Date Jan. 19 Jan. 22 Jan. 26 Jan. 30 Feb. 2 Feb. 5 Feb. 9 Feb. 13 Feb. 16 Feb. 23 Feb. 26 Mar. 2 Mar. 6 Mar. 10

Opponent at Virginia Tech North Carolina State at Georgia Tech Duke at Maryland at North Carolina Florida State at Boston College Georgia Tech Miami (Fla.) at Florida State Maryland at North Carolina State Virginia Tech

2012-13 Women’s Basketball Schedule Date Nov. 11 Nov. 14 Nov. 18 Nov. 22 Nov. 23 Nov. 24 Nov. 29 Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 8 Dec. 22 Dec. 29 Dec. 31 Jan. 6 Jan. 10

Opponent Coppin State UNC-Wilmington at Kansas Connecticut Purdue Marist at Illinois Charleston Southern Florida A&M Seton Hall at Virginia Tech Campbell Nevada at North Carolina State at Florida State

Date Jan. 13 Jan. 17 Jan. 20 Jan. 24 Jan. 27 Jan. 31 Feb. 3 Feb. 8 Feb. 10 Feb. 14 Feb. 17 Feb. 21 Feb. 25 Feb. 28 Mar. 3

Opponent Duke Clemson at Boston College Miami Virginia at Georgia Tech at North Carolina State Maryland Boston College at North Carolina at Duke Georgia Tech at Virginia Virginia Tech at Maryland