Pioneers Have an Eventful Preseason

University Center, MI - The men's basketball program has had an eventful preseason under first year head coach Carlos McMath.  McMath, a Saginaw native, brings with him a passion for people as well as growing the community in which he lives. In an effort to spread that passion to the young men that committed to Delta College, he believes a plethora of different activities can be used a means to catapult and develop more well-rounded young men as well as leaders in the community.

In September, the men's basketball program took part in two fundraising activities in conjunction with the Delta College athletic program and sports teams.  The annual Pioneer Golf Classic was held in early September followed shortly thereafter by a bowling fundraiser at Stardust Lanes.  These events were filled with sponsors, faculty and staff, as well as family and friends of our athletic program and as such gave the men of DC basketball a chance to meet all those who support them. The events were also opportunites that gave insight on how to be a positive community member.  

To culminate a full week of activities in September, Delta College Athletics participated in the AIDS walk held at Saginaw Valley State University to support Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Center of Saginaw.  It was a tremendous day as the team had a chance to hear some impactful stories but more importantly reflect about the importance of life. 

In the midst of their busy preseason, the Pioneers participated in one of the biggest jamborees around the Mid-West hosted by Owens Community College.  The Pioneers finished 2-1 while competing against top programs from around the Midwest.

In October, the Delta men took time to support the fight against breast cancer at an event held at 'Myles of Style' located in Saginaw.  Owner and event planner, Char Lawson stated, "This event shines a light on the everyday battles women face when battling breast cancer."  

"Seeing the support for this event and the overall fight women go through made our young men appreciate everyday," said Coach Carlos McMath.  "They realized they can't take life for granted.  Parcipating in these events helps our young men keep life in perspective. They will  grow and mature, which is necessary for them to be successful."

The Pioneers started their preseason off with a game agains the Alma College JV team, winning a close contest 89-83.  The hotly contested game was back and forth until the Pioneers seized control in the later moments of the game to come away with the victory.  DC was led by the scoring of Jovon Thomason with 15 points and Allante Wheeler with 10.

"Defensively this was not our best performance but we have a lot to learn from this game," said McMath.  "The later moments of the game we executed defensively but left a lot to be desired in finishing the game the right way."

The second annual DC Alumni Game was played on October 31^st, which featured both the men and women's basketball teams competing against former players who once donned a Pioneer uniform.  This year's game included a slam dunk contest during the halftime of the men's game, which included current players vs. team alumni participants. 

Both the men and women's teams were victorious in their games.  Women's assistant coach and former men's player Jason Brown took part in the event for the second straight year.

"Bridging the gap between the past and present while preparing to welcome the future of our programs is awesome," said Brown.

Delta Athletic Director, Shelly Raube, was pleased with the turnout and enjoyed watching the fun this event brought to the campus of Delta College.

"We will work to make this event even bigger in years to come. Honoring the success of the Alumni who have set the path to success."

The Pioneers finished their preseason competition with a challenging game against NCAA II opponent Northwood University.  Knowing it would be an uphill battle but desiring the challenge, the Pioneers surrendered 122 points in taking the loss.

"We schedule tough (teams) to build character for the long run," said McMath.  "Look -  when the dog days of February are upon us, we want to be prepared.  We do not back down from a challenge regardless of who we face."

Northwood University currently has four former NCAA I players on their roster including Maruice Jones, a former standout at Saginaw Arthur Hill, who was once coached by McMath.

Martel Handley and Jovon Thomason led the Pioneer effort with Thomason scoring 17 points and collecting 4 boards.  

"In that game you have to challenge guys not look at the scoreboard but to focus on our own effort and execution," said McMath.  "I am pleased by the fight and effort that we displayed but lacked the discipline needed to out execute a team like Northwood." 

The Pioneers look to start their season this upcoming weekend in Buffalo, NY where they will take on Lakeland Community College.  They will play a second game on the following day against either Erie Community College or Cuyahoga Community College.