Hornets Head Coach Jerome Jenkins is confident the Hornets can be the big gun in the Big Sky.

And why would he say anything different? As head coach, Jenkins has delivered higher win totals each year, both in conference and overall. Last year, the team set school records by winning 13 games and seven in the Big Sky.

“The program does not want to take a step backwards,” Jenkins said. “Our expectations are a Big Sky Championship and making an NCAA tournament appearance.”

The team will look and play much different than it did last season. Their inability to rebound in a 68-62 loss to Weber State in the Big Sky Tournament last year was addressed in offseason recruiting. While last year’s team relied on outside shooting, this year’s squad is big — filled out with slashers and bangers.

The team will create matchup problems at the wings, starting 6-foot 5-inch senior Jameel Pugh and 6-foot 4-inch junior transfer Jason Harris. Pugh is the team’s best scorer and will overpower other guards. Harris is an all-around talent who will overpower other small forwards. He is tough and will intimidate other teams — something the Hornets were lacking last season.

Sophomore Alex Bausley — last year’s surprise freshman — shaved around 25 pounds training in the offseason. He is quicker and faster, but kept his strength.Transfer Zane Beekman will start at center. The 6-foot 9-inch, 235-pound Illinois native is transferring from Illinois Central College as a junior. He will bring much needed size to the middle.

The deepest position for the Hornets is point guard.

DaShawn Freeman, a junior, will start at point guard. Freeman is a leader on the team and in his third year, has started more games as a Hornet than any other player currently on the roster. He controls game tempo and is one of the best defenders on the team.

E.J. Harris could play the role of last season’s Joseth Dawson, by looking to score as the team’s sixth man. The senior guard has excellent court vision and playmaking ability. Senior James Payne will round out the trio of point guards. The Detroit native acts as a sparkplug and vocal leader for the team.

Jenkins is excited about the play of his four freshmen: Randy Adams, Jason Gilzene, Schuyler McKay and Davon Roberts will all play significant roles this season according to Jenkins.