Big Five preview: LaSalle thinks it can bounce back

The energy from the improbable 2013 Sweet 16 run for La Salle is still evident within the program, but after a disappointing 15-16 season last year, it’s time for Dr. John Giannini and the Explorers to get back to work.

You might still recognize some familiar faces from that run, like Steve Zack (8.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.9 blocks) and Jerrell Wright (13.3 points, 6.6 rebounds), but the majority of the team are new faces who’re looking to make an impact for the Explorers this season.

At the top of that list is Jordan Price. Price, a 6-foot-5 guard from Georgia, transferred to the Explorers last season from Auburn where he averaged 5.4 points in 14.8 minutes his freshman year. They’re hoping he can replace some of the production lost from Tyreek Duren and Tyrone Garland at the guard positions.

Cleon Roberts, who transferred in at the same time as Price from Georgia Southern, and Khalid Lewis are being looked at as the other guards who’ll need to pick up the slack.

D.J. Peterson, Tony Washington and Amar Stukes are all looking to make an impact as well.

In an 79-61 exhibition win over Philadelphia University on Monday, Price notched 16 points, five rebounds and five assists, something they hope he can replicate on Saturday against Colgate.

It will be a season of growth and re-tooling for the Explorers, but one with promise and excitement.

The line up:
Steve Zack-C
Jerrell Wright-F
D.J. Peterson-G
Jordan Price-SG
Khalid Lewis-PG

Key Bench Players:
Cleon Roberts-G
Tony Washington-PF
Amar Stukes-G