Guy Rancourt and his Lycoming College Hoopsters are currently 10th in the nation. They are really playing well and have an impressive 16-1 record. The two-time defending MAC Champs are still the top dog in the Commonwealth. The highflying Warriors are so much fun to watch. You absolutely need to swing by Lamade Gymnasium to see them in person.

The Warriors got off to a blazing start by posting thirteen straight, right out of the gate. That’s the very best in program history. Lycoming was ranked as high as six by D3hoops.com poll before getting nipped by Lebanon Valley College. Another school record. They are an extremely talented group and continue to find ways to get it done. Perhaps their best ball is still ahead and that is just downright scary kids.

Lycoming bounced back from their lone defeat by winning the next three games. The Warriors smacked Stevenson 83-71 the week after New Years and then they erased a 14-point deficit in the closing minutes to sneak by a gritty Albright College team 86-85.

Rancourt’s ballers recently outlasted an athletic Arcadia University squad 79-75 in Philadelphia this past Saturday. Lycoming isn’t quite done either as they continue to work hard. The Warriors are gearing for their third straight title and another successful post season run.

“We are taking this one game at a time,” senior swing man Chris Wallace explained. “The rankings and praise are definitely nice, but we are only focusing on our next opponent. You can’t look ahead. If we play the way we’re capable of the rest will take care of itself.”

Rancourt is in his 10th season as Warrior Chief and his 173 wins are a very impressive feat. He was recently honored by Hoopdirt.com as their small school Coach of the week. Guy is as smooth as they come and the 2017-18 roster is one of his best. It’s a solid list of exceptional talent with a great mix of youngsters and savvy vets.

Wallace and fellow Maryland native, Alex Newbold are a dynamic one two punch. Both lads have been in the starting lineup since they stepped foot on campus. Wallace and Newbold are proven winners and they provide the much needed leadership. Opposing coaches can’t wait until they are gone and I don’t blame them one bit.

“I tend to lead by example,” Wallace continued. “Alex is more of the screamer and the in your face type of guy. That’s definitely not me. Different styles. Yes. But both Alex and I relate to this team very well. We are the only seniors left and we have been through this before. Stay focused. One game at a time.”

The 6’4” left handed Wallace isn’t flashy. He is what you would call a throwback. The soft-spoken Psychology major has a great touch and can certainly finish around the rim. Wallace leads the Warriors with 14.8 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. The banks are always open when he gets the ball down low.

Chris’ running mate Alex Newbold is simply splendid. Pound for pound. He is one of the toughest players I have EVER seen. Listed a generous 6’0 in your program, the scrappy guard plays outstanding defense and is a monster on the boards. Newbold is super quick and if he were playing defensive back for the New Orleans Saints that Minneapolis Miracle would have never happened. Guaranteed. The senior business major is second on the team with 11.4 points per game. Both are really good players and even better young men.

When it’s all said and done- Chris Wallace and Alex Newbold might go down as two of the best to ever play at Lycoming. No. Not according to statistics, but in terms of banners and wins. These two Warriors were huge contributors with the past two Conference Championships and trips to the NCAAs. And to think there’s an even better opportunity to capture a third straight crown in 2018. Man.

My bad Chris. One game at a time. Stay focused. Go Warriors. To be continued I am sure. Keep it rolling boys. Cheers.