The Loyola Marymount Lions men’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2024-25 season with high hopes for a turnaround after a challenging previous year.
The team aims to improve on their 12-19 record from last season, with the goal of making it to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1990.
Under the leadership of fifth-year head coach Stan Johnson, the squad is focused on better performance and building team chemistry as they prepare to take the court at Gersten Pavilion.
Fans can expect a full schedule featuring 17 home games, creating numerous opportunities to support the Lions. The athletic department has already launched options for season tickets, offering dedicated fans the chance to secure their seats for an exciting year ahead.
As the season approaches, the team is generating buzz on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, making it easy for supporters to stay informed and connected with their favorite players and updates.
With an offseason full of changes and new strategies, the Loyola Marymount Lions are determined to show their fans a competitive and entertaining basketball season.
The combination of returning players and new talent is expected to bring fresh energy to the team, making this preview essential for anyone wanting to follow the journey of LMU basketball through the upcoming season.
Loyola Marymount Lions Men’s Basketball Overview
The Loyola Marymount Lions men’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2024-25 season with high hopes and fresh talent. Under the guidance of their coaching staff, the team aims to improve their standing in the competitive West Coast Conference. Key players will play a pivotal role in shaping the upcoming season.
Key Storylines
One major storyline is the inclusion of first-year player Jevon Porter, who was named to the 2024-25 WCC Men’s Basketball Preseason Team. His addition could significantly enhance the team’s offensive strategies.
The Lions are looking to build on their history, having last made an NCAA tournament appearance in 1990. Their home games are hosted at Gersten Pavilion, a venue known for its passionate fan base.
Additionally, the team’s overall record stands at 933 wins and 1,200 losses since 1943, indicating room for improvement. This season, they aim to improve their win-loss percentage and make a mark in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Roster Breakdown
The Loyola Marymount Lions men’s basketball team enters the 2024-25 season with an exciting roster mix of returning players, new talent, and key departures. This balance is crucial for their performance in the West Coast Conference, as they aim to build on their previous season.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Returning Players
The Lions will benefit from several key returning players who bring experience and skill to the court.
Jevon Porter, a first-year standout, has already made waves by being named to the 2024-25 WCC Men’s Basketball Preseason Team. His addition will continue to elevate the team’s performance.
Other vital returning athletes include Khalil Shabazz and Malik Fitts, who both were instrumental in past seasons. Their leadership and familiarity with the team’s dynamics will provide stability.
Additionally, the returning players have been emphasizing teamwork during summer training, setting a positive tone for the upcoming season.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s New Additions
The Lions have also welcomed several new additions that could significantly impact their season. The coaching staff has recruited talented newcomers to fill gaps left by departing players.
Notable among them is Justin Brown, who transferred from a competitive program and is expected to bring both athleticism and skills to the team.
Another significant addition is Davis Calloway, who displayed exceptional talent in high school and has the potential to make an immediate contribution. These new student-athletes are eager to integrate into the squad, enhancing the overall competitive spirit of the Lions.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Key Departures
Every season brings changes, and the Lions have seen some key players depart.
Eli Scott, a team leader and top scorer from the last season, has graduated and left big shoes to fill. His scoring ability and on-court presence will be missed.
Similarly, Boubacar Toure, a strong defensive player, has also moved on. The losses of these impactful players will challenge the coaching staff to adapt quickly. Filling their roles effectively will be crucial for the team to maintain competitiveness in the demanding West Coast Conference landscape.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Projected Starting Lineup
The Loyola Marymount Lions are gearing up for the 2024-25 season with a promising roster. Key positions are expected to be solid, and depth off the bench will play an important role in the team’s performance.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Position-by-Position Analysis
Point Guard: The Lions will likely start with a skilled point guard who can distribute the ball effectively and command the offense. This player will need to balance scoring with playmaking.
Shooting Guard: Expect a strong shooter in this position, capable of hitting three-pointers and driving to the basket. Defense will also be crucial here, as this player must guard the opposing team’s best perimeter scorer.
Small Forward: A versatile athlete is essential at small forward to help with both offense and defense. This player often scores in varied ways and works well in transition.
Power Forward: The power forward should combine size and agility, allowing for effective inside scoring and rebounding. This player will play a key role in both ends of the court.
Center: A strong presence in the paint is vital, as the center needs to block shots and secure rebounds. Offensive skills, like post moves, are also essential in this position.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Bench Depth
The bench depth for the Lions will provide supportive scoring and defense throughout the season. Key players coming off the bench can impact the game by bringing energy and fresh legs.
Guard Depth: The team looks to have at least one talented guard ready to contribute. This player can either shoot from long range or drive to the basket, adding dynamism.
Forward Depth: Having a mix of forwards brings flexibility. Players who can step in and defend or shoot when starters are rested will be crucial for maintaining momentum.
Big Man Options: Additional size on the bench can relieve the center and power forward. They will need to step up in rebounding and shot-blocking situations.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Style of Play
The Loyola Marymount Lions are known for their dynamic approach to basketball. Their gameplay involves a well-defined offensive strategy and a committed defensive style. Both aspects are crucial for their success in the upcoming season.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Offensive Strategy
Loyola Marymount’s offense focuses on pace and movement. They emphasize quick ball movement to create open shots. This tactic involves a combination of pick-and-roll plays and off-ball screens. The Lions aim to stretch the defense and find high-percentage shooting opportunities.
Key players contribute significantly to this strategy. For example, the versatility of their guards allows for effective driving lanes. This enables them to either finish at the rim or kick out to sharpshooters on the perimeter. They also utilize a motion offense to keep defenders guessing and maximize scoring chances.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Defensive Strategy
Loyola Marymount’s defensive approach is rooted in intensity and teamwork. The team focuses on creating turnovers through aggressive on-ball pressure and smart rotations. They employ a mix of man-to-man and zone defenses, adapting to opponents’ strengths.
Fundamentals are key in their defensive strategy. Players are trained to box out and contest shots effectively. Additionally, maintaining communication on the court ensures that everyone is aware of their responsibilities. This strong defensive foundation allows them to disrupt the opposing team’s rhythm and create transition scoring opportunities.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Schedule Analysis
The Loyola Marymount Lions face a challenging schedule in the 2024-25 season. This includes key matchups that could define their success, tough stretches that will test their resilience, and a mixture of home and away games that impact team dynamics.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Key Games
Several key games in the schedule can significantly impact the Lions’ success. One notable matchup to watch is against Gonzaga, a powerhouse in the West Coast Conference (WCC). Their game at Gersten Pavilion will be crucial, as it is not only a home game but also an opportunity to gain momentum.
Another vital contest is against Saint Mary’s, a traditional rival. This game often produces intense competition and could affect standings in the WCC.
Non-conference games will also be significant. A matchup against Colorado State could test the Lions early in the season. Additionally, competing in the Cancun Challenge presents opportunities for quality wins against teams like Detroit Mercy and Nevada.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Toughest Stretches
The schedule features several tough stretches for the Lions. One challenging segment comes in January when they will face consecutive games against San Francisco and Santa Clara. Both teams frequently compete for upper-tier positions in the WCC, making these games pivotal.
Another grueling part of the schedule includes away games at Pepperdine and Pacific. Long trips combined with tough opponents may stretch the team’s depth and endurance.
These back-to-back games require strong performance to remain competitive. Maintaining focus and energy will be crucial during these intense periods.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Home vs. Away
The Lions’ home games at Gersten Pavilion will be significant in their quest for a strong season. Playing on familiar territory often boosts team morale and attendance, creating a supportive atmosphere for crucial games against rivals like Saint Louis and San Diego.
Conversely, away games present unique challenges. The Lions will need to adapt quickly, especially during the Cancun Challenge in Mexico and another away matchup against Washington State. Balancing home and away performances will be essential in navigating their overall success this season.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Strengths And Weaknesses
The Loyola Marymount Lions show promise for the 2024-25 season with several strengths while also facing some weaknesses that could impact their performance.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Strengths
One notable strength of the Lions is their talented roster.
First-year player Jevon Porter has been named to the 2024-25 WCC Men’s Basketball Preseason Team. His addition brings fresh energy and skill to the team.
The team also benefits from experience in key positions.
Returning players have had valuable game time, which can enhance teamwork and chemistry on the court. With improved communication, they can execute plays more effectively.
Furthermore, the Lions are strong defensively.
Their ability to disrupt opponents’ offenses has been a key factor in close games. A solid defense can often lead to transition opportunities, helping them score quickly.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Weaknesses
Despite their strengths, the Lions face weaknesses that could hinder their success.
One challenge is inconsistency in scoring. At times, the team has struggled to find a rhythm, especially in high-pressure situations. This inconsistency can lead to frustrating losses.
In addition, depth may be a concern.
The roster could be thin in certain positions, making it difficult to sustain high performance throughout the season. Injuries or foul trouble can be especially damaging when there aren’t enough quality substitutes.
Lastly, the team needs to improve on rebounding.
While they have solid defenders, they sometimes allow opponents to gain too many offensive boards. This can lead to extended possessions for the opposition and put extra pressure on the defense.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Predictions
As the 2024-25 season approaches, there are several key aspects to consider for the Loyola Marymount Lions. These include their overall season outlook, expected conference standings, and potential for postseason play.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Season Outlook
The Lions are anticipated to show significant improvements in the upcoming season, building on their previous year’s performance.
With a roster that includes notable first-year talent like Jevon Porter, the team has the potential to compete effectively in the West Coast Conference (WCC).
Loyola Marymount aims to enhance their win-loss record, targeting a more balanced offensive and defensive strategy. This year, the coaching staff will emphasize player development and teamwork to create synergy on the court.
Fans can expect competitive play during both non-conference and conference matchups. The expectations are high as they aim to secure a winning record and progress further in the WCC standings.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Conference Standing
In the WCC, the Loyola Marymount Lions are projected to be a middle-tier team, vying for a competitive position among rivals.
Their performance against top teams like Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s will be crucial for their standing.
The Lions are looking to finish with a W-L record that improves their overall rankings. Analysts predict that if they can secure wins against key opponents, they could place in the upper half of the conference.
In previous seasons, they have struggled against stronger teams, but with new recruits, the current strategy aims to change that trend.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Postseason Potential
The postseason potential for the Lions largely depends on their regular season performance and conference standings.
If they can achieve a strong record, they may earn a spot in the National Invitation Tournament or even the NCAA Tournament.
The Lions must focus on winning crucial games to maximize their postseason chances. The coaching staff will need to address any weaknesses in their play effectively to ensure they can compete at a high level.
Success in the WCC tournament will be critical for their postseason goals. Fans should keep an eye on key matchups and player performances throughout the season to gauge their postseason viability. For more seasonal insights, visitors can check Game Previews.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Key Players To Watch
The Loyola Marymount Lions have a mix of talent for the 2024-25 season. Key players are expected to lead the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists. Their performance will be crucial for the team’s success.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Star Player
One standout player for the Lions is Cam Shelton. As a guard, he averaged 17.5 points and 4.3 assists last season, showing great skill in both scoring and playmaking. His ability to control the game and create opportunities will be vital this year.
Shelton has a knack for hitting clutch shots and can also penetrate defenses effectively. If he improves his three-point shooting, he could elevate his game significantly. His experience and leadership on the court will help guide younger teammates throughout the season.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Breakout Candidates
Kameron Edwards is poised to be a breakout candidate this year. Last season, he contributed 12.0 points and 6.5 rebounds, showcasing his versatility as both a scorer and rebounder. Edwards has the potential to step up his game and become a reliable second option for the Lions.
Another player to watch is Zane Johnson, who showed flashes of brilliance in limited minutes. If he can expand his role, his scoring ability and energy could make him a key contributor. Both players have the talent to make significant impacts if they improve their consistency.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Freshmen To Watch
The incoming freshmen will bring fresh talent to the team. A promising player is Jake Davis, a highly regarded point guard. He is known for his quickness and vision, which should translate well to college play. If he earns significant playing time, fans can expect exciting plays and assists from him.
Sam Thompson, a forward, is another freshman to keep an eye on. His athleticism and defensive skills can provide depth to the Lions’ roster. Both players have the potential to become impact players early in the season and help the Lions achieve their goals.
Loyola Marymount Lions’s Fan Expectations
Fans of the Loyola Marymount Lions have high hopes for the upcoming season. They expect to see competitive games, especially at home in Gersten Pavilion.
The team’s performance in critical matchups will be a topic of discussion, particularly the games against other West Coast Conference rivals.
Community support is strong, and fan engagement will likely increase as the Lions navigate their schedule.
The loyalty and enthusiasm from the fans serve as a motivating factor for the players. They are eager to see a strong showcase of skills and teamwork, driving the Lions toward success.