I know it’s just one game, but after the Eastern’s men’s basketball team’s victory over the University of Loyola-Chicago, I am ecstatic to see the Panthers play again.

They are sitting at 1-1 after playing two good teams. The loss was 79-72 to defending Missouri Valley Champion Indiana State.

I really think the Panthers have a good chance to make some noise in the Ohio Valley Conference this year. Head coach Mike Miller has assembled his deepest team in some time and that will be the team’s strength.

It gives a coach a lot of confidence knowing he has 12 guys on his team that can play minutes and perform at a high level. With the additions of seven newcomers, I was unsure how good the bench could be, but freshman guard Joey Miller and freshman forward Josh Piper are already giving the team good minutes.

Junior guard Austin Akers is exciting as well. He makes the occasional bad pass, but he has the ability to run a Division I offense at the point guard position. He showed that with 5 assists and 1 turnover against Indiana State.

But, the player I am most excited about is sophomore forward Alfonzo McKinnie. I have said before that McKinnie has by far the most raw talent on Eastern’s roster. And he showed all of his abilities Wednesday night.

McKinnie led the team with 13 points, eight rebounds, four blocks and two steals. The 13 points was a little surprising to me, but Mike Miller said McKinnie put in a ton of work over the offseason. It seems as though he has developed a solid series of post moves that can be effective.

McKinnie was also 5-of-5 from the freethrow line, showing that he has the ability to develop a jump shot and when that happens look out. Miller told me the sky is the limit with this player and I have to say I agree.

If he develops a consistent outside shot and puts on a few more pounds of muscle, his athleticism and defensive ability could earn him a huge paycheck.

I am really excited to see where McKinnie is come March. If he continues on the path he is on he will easily be one of the best forwards in the conference.

Rob Mortell can be reached at 581-7944 or at rdmortell@eiu.edu.