Bradenton, FL - The SCF basketball team takes to the court this season with new faces and a team centered approach. The Manatees, whose 2013-14 campaign ended in the Suncoast Conference Tournament championship game, looks to build on the late season success. Key losses included Gabriel Dos Santos and Emmanuel Pellot who transferred to NCAA Division 1 Jacksonville State University and Florida A&M University, respectively.
Eleven new players join the team for the 2014-2015 conquest. Joshua Floyd and Travis Mitchell are key backcourt players that will be instrumental in the success of the Manatees offense. Daniel Duarte brings a mix of deep range and physical toughness needed to compete in the Suncoast Conference. Riverview Alumni Harrsion Hebert, will stretch the defense with sharp shooting behind the arch. Rounding out the backcourt is Impact Basketball Alumni, Gustavo Leon, whose skillfulness and experience will be an asset in the backcourt.
In the front court, Deojunique Flippin, Jerry Oliver, and Divante Jenkins each stand at least 6'6" and provide a diverse skill set. The middle will be anchored and protected by 6'8" Rodney Ross from Atlanta, Georgia and 6'9" Kingsley Nwagboso from Manchester, England. Coach Washington believes versitility in the front court will be one the teams' keys to success.
The Manatees schedule features fierce competition. Five teams from the FCSAA Coaches Pre-Season poll are included on the Manatees 2014-15 season schedule. The first of those teams to visit Hal Chasey Gymnasium will be College of Central Florida on December 9 at 7:00 pm. Later that week the Manatees will travel to Ocala, Fl for the JuCo Shootout and will face Tallahassee Community College and Daytona State College. The Suncoast Conference home opener is on Saturday January 24, 2015 against St. Petersburg College.
The Manatees open the season at home Saturday November 1 against Impact Basketball from Sarasota, FL. Tip off is scheduled for 7:00 pm. For a complete season schedule, please click here. Admission for games is $4 for general admission, $2 for seniors, and FREE with and SCF ID.