MBB Preview: La Salle's First-Year Coach Nichols' Strategy for Success
Don't underestimate Darris Nichols. While offense is crucial, so is defense and rebounding. Nichols has a unique approach to coaching, and it's all about creating a tough, gritty environment.
Nichols has his team practicing with a chain that reads, 'Rebound that jawn,' a playful nod to Philadelphia's slang. This isn't just about basketball; it's about embodying the city's spirit of resilience and determination. And that's exactly what Nichols wants from his team, the Explorers.
Nichols understands the challenge of building a culture of toughness. He's had to recruit hard to get the players he wanted, and he's confident in the roster he's assembled this year.
La Salle is a team that needed name tags during summer workouts, as the coach is new to the area. Nichols himself is no stranger to the game, having played at West Virginia and coached at several universities, including Northern Kentucky, Wofford, Louisiana Tech, and Florida, before his four seasons at Radford.
Nichols was drawn to La Salle because of its potential. The team has been on a winning streak, with 20 wins in the last three years, and the refurbished arena adds to the allure. The goal is clear: get back to the NCAA tournament, last achieved in 2013.
Nichols sees the Atlantic 10 as a strong league, one of the best in the country. He believes in the power of people and the shared vision of the administration. His goal is to put La Salle on the map and build the university's reputation.
The Nichols Era is just beginning, and rebounding is at the heart of his strategy. Nichols believes that rebounding is contagious and essential for success. He wants his team to be in every game, and he knows that consistent defense and rebounding are key.
Meet the Explorers
Coach: Darris Nichols, in his first season at La Salle, with a 68-63 record in four seasons overall.
Last Season: The Explorers finished 14-19 overall and 5-13 in the league. They faced challenges, including an eight-game losing streak, but managed to win their home finale and the A-10 Championship game.
Key Departures: La Salle underwent a major roster change, losing top scorer Corey McKeithan (15.9 ppg). The transfer of Deuce Jones II (12.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.8 apg), the Atlantic 10's rookie of the year, to a rival team, could be a significant loss.
Returning Players: Only one player, junior guard Eric Acker, is back from last season. However, Nichols has a few players who played for him at Radford, including Justin Archer, Truth Harris, and Josiah Harris.
New Talent: La Salle welcomes several new players, including Jerome Brewer Jr., a 6-foot-9, 220-pound forward who averaged 13.8 points and 4.7 rebounds at East Texas A&M. He brings energy and intangibles to the team.
Additional Recruits: The team also includes three double-digit scorers from Division I level: Noah Collier, Josué Grullon, and Jaeden Marshall.
Reasons for Optimism: Nichols has a well-rounded team with depth, a strategy inspired by NBA success. He believes in accountability and a deep team, which could be a significant advantage.
X Factor: Jaden Johnson, a transfer from Old Dominion, is a potential game-changer. He started 34 games and averaged 8.6 points and 3.7 assists as a freshman. Johnson's development as a point guard will be crucial.
Schedule: La Salle's first season under Nichols begins on November 5th with a visit from Coppin State. The highlight of the non-conference schedule is a Big 5 match against Villanova on November 19th.
Conclusion: La Salle is poised for an exciting season under Nichols' leadership. With a mix of experience and new talent, the Explorers have the energy and strategy to make a significant impact. The team's ability to generate consistent offense and dominate on the boards could be their secret to success.
