Speed 78, Size 66

Speed versus size. A team with ten players listed at 6-4 or smaller versus a team with six players listed at 6-6 or larger. Despite doubts about our size, our schedule, and our youth in general, Vassar men’s basketball opened its 2009-2010 season with a statement.

Speed 78, Size 66. Or more to the point, Vassar 78, Endicott 66

There is plenty to work on, but it was a solid first effort against a big and tough Endicott team. Caleb McGraw, who was named the Liberty League Player of the Week, led us with a career high 37 points, and our up-tempo style produced much more than a one-man show, as nine different players scored. Our frenetic full court press caused 22 Endicott turnovers, but equally crucial was our ability to take care of the ball on the offensive end; we committed just six miscues.

Preparation for the season-opener against Endicott began months ago in the beginning of September, when pickup games and early-morning conditioning started. When our freshmen John Donnelly (9 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals), who earned Liberty League Rookie of the Week honors, and Jon Herzog (4 points, 4 rebounds, 0 turnovers in 23 minutes) were hardly moved into their dorm rooms, let alone starters and big contributors for our team.

Another team contributor was identified even before the opening tip. Our stands were almost full, scattered with Vassar students, parents, and, most impressively, hundreds of Poughkeepsie residents. It was the biggest crowd I have ever seen at a Vassar basketball game, and I hope it continues when we host the Vassar Tip-Off Tournament this coming weekend. We play Newbury College at 8:00 p.m. In the opening game at 6:00 p.m. Western Connecticut plays last year's national Division III finalist Richard Stockton.

As for me, my first game as player, not a Sports Information worker, was a fun one. I won’t soon forget the feeling of finding my brand new game jersey hanging in front of my locker before the game. I hardly played at all, but when I entered the game in the last minute, it really sunk in.

The new era of VC Basketball began with a high. Our goal is a culture of success fostered by new roles and personnel, a relentless style and work ethic, and reinvigorated fans. A three-point halftime lead pushed to a 12-point win was a good start.

But for me and for the team, it’s on to the next one. We’re already looking forward to Newbury. Hopefully, so are the hordes of people who watched us win our first game.