by Josh Bond

The Salisbury University men’s basketball team (5-2, 0-1 conf.) has to be pleased with their performance so far this season.

The Sea Gulls began the season by winning the Pride of Maryland Tournament. SU defeated opponents Stevenson, Frostburg and Johns Hopkins all by at least 10 points, winning the tournament for the first time in seven years.

“I attribute our success to our tough pre-season and competitive practices,” said senior guard Devin Posey, who was named the most valuable player of the tournament. “We want to be great, (we) are willing to work hard, and (we) expect to win.”

Following the tournament victory, SU recorded what may be its best regular season win in the program’s history by defeating No. 1-ranked Virginia Wesleyan 68-65.  The following week, SU was rewarded with the No. 20 ranking in all of Division III.

“The win was a great experience,” said first-year Head Coach Josh Merkel. “Our guys know they can play with anyone in the country.”

However, the Sea Gull’s four game winning streak came to an end as they suffered back-to-back losses against Hood College and John Jay College of Criminal Justice. It appeared as though the Sea Gulls had lost their winning edge.

To get back on track, SU played a must-win game against Penn State-Abington. Ultimately, the Sea Gulls prevailed as they narrowly won 80-77.

The team’s captains, senior forwards Mike Atkins and Mike Maczko, have led the way for SU’s stellar start. For the season, Atkins leads the team in average points per game with 14.1 points, and Mackzo is second with 12.7 points per game.

SU has also received enthusiastic support from their hometown crowds, who have been visibly pleased with the team’s success.

“I enjoy going to the basketball games because each game is exciting,” said freshman Ryan Fluehr. “It’s fun to cheer for a winning team.”

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