BLOG 5: Bulldog men to host exhibition contest

By Sandy Gholston

Ferris State point guard Dontae Molden makes a move to the basket as he is guarded by Darien Gay during practice (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

BIG RAPIDS – Ferris State University is preparing to host the first of two exhibition contests on Thursday night at 5 p.m.

The Bulldogs host Cornerstone on Thursday evening in Jim Wink Arena prior to their final exhibition on Nov. 11 (at 8 p.m.) as Calvin comes up to Big Rapids.

This exhibition will be a nice preseason test for Ferris as it works to blend in some of its talented newcomers with the sophomores who gained experience last winter as freshmen. Practice is important, but it’s also critical to test practice results against opposing competition to break up what can become stale without at least a few quizzes here and there against someone in a different colored jersey.

Many people will focus on 6-foot-6 sophomore center Justin Keenan, who averaged 15.9 points and 6.9 rebounds last season as a rookie – and deservedly so. But, will be more interesting is to see how Ferris’ guard play improves with a year of experience. Sophomores Darien Gay, Darryl Nobles, Bryan Pasciak and Matt DeHart return at the guard positions with a year of experience and a summer of hard work to their credit.

Newcomer Dontae Molden, a product of Detroit Pershing High School, is showing flashes of being a strong addition as a point guard. Austin Randel, who has been battling an injury in the preseason, gives Ferris a shooting presence from the perimeter. Look also for Josh Young, a transfer from Kellogg Community College, to be a factor as well.

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com