Buena Vista, Va. – The Southern Virginia University men's basketball team is gearing up for the 2024-2025 season, with second-year head coach Trace Bevell leading the charge. After Coach Bevell's inaugural season, which laid the groundwork, the Knights are poised to make strides with a mix of seasoned returners and impactful newcomers.

"We are excited for the upcoming season," said Coach Bevell. "We have a solid group of returners and a strong class of incoming transfers and freshmen. This year, we have a much better understanding of how competitive the conference is, and we know what it takes to contend every game."

Key returners for the Knights include Tyler Kartchner and DJ Green, who were consistent starters last season. In addition, Alex Weiland, Luc DeVore, Collin Griffith, Everett Leifson, and Matthew Hale, who each started multiple games, bring valuable experience back to the lineup.

Despite returning nine players from last year's squad, Southern Virginia will see immediate contributions from several newcomers. Eli Ballstaedt, Jude Ballstaedt, and Timmy Johnson will all look to make an impact while Kade Harrick and Canyon Carlson return from missions and injuries. A talented group of incoming freshmen also add depth to the roster, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive season.

"With the returners and transfer student-athletes, we feel that we have good leadership and experience," Bevell said. "The guys know what it takes to compete at this level on a daily basis. Our schedule is difficult once again and will challenge us every night, but we're deeper overall and better equipped to meet those challenges. We addressed some of the needs from last year's team and are looking forward to a strong season."

The Knights will tip off their season at Averett University and play four of their first 13 games at Knight Arena. They'll enter conference play on January 4th with a schedule that includes seven home and seven away games leading up to the conference playoffs, which begin on February 25th.

Looking ahead, Coach Bevell expects the team to be more competitive and better prepared for the season's challenges. "Last year was our first season, and we didn't know what to expect," he added. "Now, with the experience and leadership we've gained, we feel ready to take the next step."

For the most up-to-date information and details about the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_hoops on Instagram.