The Phoenix College Men's Basketball Team welcomed the 2022-2023 players to campus last Monday, for the start of summer academic, strength and skills classes.  After a disappointing 16-14 season, which saw the Bears miss the playoffs, Coach Duane Eason and his staff are excited about the upcoming season.

"The summer is always a great way to find out how many guys are committed to academics, weight training, and improving their games." Coach Eason said.

The Bears are replacing 10 players, and that big of a turnover requires a strong summer to get the guys acclimated to the way things are done at PC.

Coach Eason added, "A lot of these guys are new to structure and standards, let alone college, so it's better for them to go through the growing pains in the summer, rather than the fall."

Top returners, Michael Rogers and Jamar Brown will bring a veteran presence, and Coach Eason expects them to set the example for the new faces.  Both are expected to be all-conference and all-region performers for the Bears this season.  If the testing and measurements are any indications, it's safe to say they are well on their way to a stellar season.

Coach Eason said the emphasis will be to create a competitive mindset this summer, something he felt was lacking last season.

"A lot of the guys last year were solid, but needed to be more competitive; on and off the floor.  That was the difference between 16 wins and 19 or 20, in my opinion."

This year's roster is a lot different; as it shows more depth, high level experience, size, and versatility.  The combine like testing has allowed us a sneak peak at the athleticism of this group, while the skills testing shows the depth of basketball ability they have.

If the first 2 days of testing is any indication, this group is going to be one of the best groups Coach Eason has had in his time here.