SAINTS SHOOT FOR IMPACT ON THE COURT

Mt. Hood basketball is back in full-court press mode. 

On Friday, Nov. 15, the Saints men will play Shoreline Community College in their first official game of the season. 

If the scrimmage against Prairie College of Alberta, Canada, on Oct. 27 is any indication, the Saints are looking at a high-scoring season this year. They played aggressively, hence the 126 points scored in their win. 

As they prepare for the season, the Saints’ statistical goals for this year are to lead the league in steals and to still be playing come March – meaning, making the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) playoffs. They are particularly excited to face Lane, Portland (PCC), and, of course, Clackamas community colleges – all archrivals in the South Region – this season.

However, the team also has personal goals to impact each other and the community, said its new leader for 2019-20.

“Most importantly we want to lead the conference in touches,” said first-year head Coach Nathan Bowie (meaning moving/sharing the basketball while on offense). He elaborated that uplifting one another and maintaining a strong bond among teammates will be important this season.

This is a year of challenges for Mt. Hood, noted Bowie, who said he’s looking forward to them.

“Challenges often force us to adapt and improve, which is crucial in a fast-paced sport,” he told the Advocate.

However, in addition to all of the evolving and improving, the team will carry over some old traditions. Bowie and the Saints will be continuing past year’s initiative to be involved in the local community. They began working toward this goal with the ’Lil Saints Basketball Camp, held in September.

Going forward this season, Bowie said the team is planning to do some read-a-longs, and seek out opportunities to offer mentorship and positive role models to Gresham youth. 

The Saints vs. Shoreline game tonight of a tournament at Portland Community College. It will be quickly followed by the Saints’ second contest of the season, against Pierce College on Saturday.

The team has only one home game this term. If you’re hoping to catch a game on campus before January, catch the Saints as they face off against Tacoma Community College on Friday, Nov. 22 at the Yoshida Events Center.

The full season schedule for both men’s and women’s Saints basketball teams can be found on the MHCC website.