SAVANNAH, Ga. — The atmosphere at Savannah State was buzzing with anticipation on November 11, as the university’s athletic department hosted a meet-and-greet for its men’s and women’s basketball teams at the student union. This event was particularly significant as it marked the first public appearance of the new women’s basketball coach, Phillip Wallace, since he took the helm.

Wallace, who stepped into the role on August 4, faced the challenge of a tight recruiting timeline. Despite the late start, he managed to recruit a few promising players to blend with the existing team members. His goal is not only to enhance the team’s roster but also to implement a new offensive and defensive strategy while fostering a positive team culture.

Wallace replaced Cedric Baker, who left to join South Carolina State in May. Reflecting on the current state of his team, Wallace expressed confidence in his players’ abilities. “Looking at what we have coming back,” he stated, “I think the five or six or seven girls that we look to play each night can compete with the young ladies on those other teams, no matter what their size, the roster size, anything.”

Additionally, he is trying to install a new system, which includes a new offensive and defensive system, and improve the culture. Wallace takes over for Cedric Baker, who departed for South Carolina State in May.

“Looking at what we have coming back,” Wallace said, “I think the five or six or seven girls that we look to play each night can compete with the young ladies on those other teams, no matter what their size, the roster size, anything.”

As for the men, they are coming off winning the conference tournament championship. This year’s roster definitely has a more hometown feel.

Players Javonte Landy, Zyere Edwards and James Leach all hail from the Hostess City. Coach Clevan Thompson expects them to have big roles this season.

“[I think they are] very surprised now that they’re inside the walls, recognizing that a lot of things that they’ve heard when they were on the outside is not so,” Coach Thompson said. “It’s very welcoming. We have a family-like environment and we expect big things from those guys as they continue to march along and get better as basketball players.”

The men start the season on the road with an exhibition against St. Leo on Nov. 14 at 7 p.m.

As for the women, they start the exhibition season on Saturday, Nov. 15. They host Barber-Scotia College at 1 p.m. at Tiger Arena.