A new conference and a solid returning nucleus has coach Rees Johnson looking to rise in Division I respectability. The team begins practice Saturday afternoon.
In its first three Division I seasons, Northeastern recorded two, eight and 11 victories, respectively. The momentum-building trend received its exclamation point when the Golden Eagles enjoyed their first victory over an established city rival, a season-ending upset of Illinois-Chicago last year.
“People are starting to take notice of Northeastern Illinois basketball in a positive way,” Johnson said. “We have established the reputation of playing hard every game.”
The Golden Eagles joined the East Coast Conference after last season. The new affiliation will serve to give Northeastern a focal point, something it has lacked in its young Division I life.
The school returns top scorer Reggie Smith, who averaged 17.9 points and 5.0 rebounds a game last season.
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The backboards could prove the difference between success and failure. Seniors Ulyses Moran (6.0 rebounds a game), team rebounding leader Shannon Greene (6.7) and sophomore leaper Monte O’Quinn (5.7) figure to give the Golden Eagles an important edge.