RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The UTRGV men's basketball team wrapped up a summer of practices that allowed them to hone their craft and prepare for a season now just 95 days away.
 
The Vaqueros upped the intensity toward the end of summer workouts. On Wednesday, for example, the Vaqueros ended practice by doing full reps in their half-court offense and defense. The team worked on seeing every option on the floor and knowing where you're their teammates are in any given situation. They were able to swing the ball around and have good entry passes in the block for easy dunks or open threes from the corner.
 
The defense had some highlight plays of their own, including a handful of tipped passes that resulted in fastbreak opportunities, protecting the rim by denying a few easy layups and dunks, and a great trap that forced the offense to turn the ball over because of a travel.

"I've been very happy with our guys' effort and desire to become a better team and grow together," head coach Matt Figger said. "I like the energy and effort across the board."
 
Last season, the Vaqueros won 15 games with a handful of tight losses, keeping the team just a few possessions from 20 wins. With about half of the roster returning, Figger is hoping that the combination of experience and talent can help the Vaqueros improve their win total for the third season in a row.

The Vaqueros have eight newcomers joining the program for the 2023-24 season. Figger appreciates the camaraderie and personality that is starting to take place with this team through summer workouts. He also mentioned how the returning players are maturing and taking on leadership roles for this team.
 
"It's maturity. Some of our second-year guys are also seniors. When you become a senior, you look through the lens a little different," Figger said. "When you're a freshman, you want to play. When you're a sophomore, you want to contribute. When you're a junior, you want to win. When you're a senior, you want to make the NCAA Tournament."
 
The seniors include Daylen Williams, Ahren Freeman, and C.J. Jackson. Williams started 22 games last season and averaged 6.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.03 steals per game while shooting 54% from the field. Williams was also awarded with the UTRGV Male Newcomer of the Year award.
 
Freeman averaged 8.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting 64.5% from the field. Freeman led UTRGV in rebounding and reached double-figures in scoring 10 times.
 
Jackson averaged 5.0 points and 2.0 rebounds per game. Jackson led UTRGV in scoring four times and reached double-figures in scoring six times.
 
These seniors will be crucial for the Vaqueros to take the next step. During practice, you will often hear the veterans help the newcomers through their progressions and options within the system. This is one of many ways that the seniors are helping get this team prepared for this upcoming season.

"These guys want to be a part of history and be a group that's remembered for going to the NCAA tournament," Figger said.

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