Q: The men’s basketball team has had an incredible run through the first 18 games. How has the team been able to keep this winning streak alive?

A: I think we have all bought into a system that really works for the type of team that we have. Everybody plays their role and we all enjoy seeing our teammates play well. It’s by far the most unselfish team I have ever been around and I really think that translates to how we play on the court.

Q: What are your thoughts on the seniors? What legacy have they left on the team?

A: The seniors on this team are a very special group and some of the closest teammates I have ever had. I just feel very fortunate to be surrounded with guys that are not only really good basketball players but also really good people. I really think the legacy we will leave will be putting the team over ourselves and being genuinely happy for each other’s success. Every practice we conclude by gathering in a group and saying “Family,” and I think that is truly the atmosphere that has been created.

Q: What additions in the off-season do you feel were addressed and how have they played out? The team is nearly perfect this year, but do you still see room for improvement?

A: Everyone we added in the off-season has really helped our team out. Losing Sir Lee and Modie, we knew we were going to have to fill in some major scoring deficits, and we did that. However, I think the coaching staff deserves a lot of credit for finding ways to add players that improved our team from last year and not just settling for replacing what we lost.

Q: March is coming on fast. How has Coach Brown been able to keep players focused despite all the success?

A: I think we have a very mature team in this aspect and even though we are certainly pleased with the start we have had to the season, the overall goal is still to do well in tournament time and that ideal hasn’t been lost in our success. That attitude certainly starts from the coaching staff, but it’s something that is kind of unspoken because we all realize it.

Q: How has the offensive and defensive game changed in comparison to previous seasons?

A: Offensively, there is more freedom this year for players to take advantage of individual match-ups. We have the luxury of being able to adjust our offense according to the mismatches of whatever team we are playing; however, the crux of our game plan has always been hard-nosed defense and I don’t think that has changed at all. We’ve been able to play a little more full court on account of our depth but for the most part, our half court defense in really the essence of our team.