The Tulane Green Wave men’s basketball team, which finished 10th in the American Athletic Conference with an overall record of 14-17 last season, is focused on building chemistry and embracing a new era in college athletics. .
One of the many key pieces that helps form those bonds is Greg Glenn III, a 6-foot-7 forward from Michigan State. The athletic junior was a key player on the Green Wave’s 2023 squad, appearing in 30 of 31 games and grabbing 77 rebounds.
Not only has Glenn become a strong leader for this year’s Tulane team, but he has continued to improve and better himself in the weight room before the season begins on Monday, Nov. 4.
“Greg has been great. He lost 15 pounds last year, which is what we wanted him to do, and his body has really changed,” head coach Ron Hunter said. “His attitude was great and I think he’s playing the best basketball of his career right now. That’s going to be important for him and Asher (Woods) because they know the system. ”
Throughout the offseason, Hunter has consistently emphasized his message to this year’s team. It’s about coming together on the court.
In the sport of basketball, building bonds with your teammates and making sure everyone is on the same page plays an essential role in your team’s success. Last season didn’t live up to the Green Wave’s expectations, but the 2024 roster, filled with a number of new players, is ready to prove they can come together on the court and deliver Green Wave faithful. It’s done.
“I think it’s going to be a lot different than last year,” Glenn said. “We’re more connected and ready for things off the court. We were spread out last year, but I think they’re more connected.”
In addition to building chemistry on the court, the Green Wave have put a lot of effort into building an identity this season as playing hard-nosed, tough, gritty and determined defensive basketball. . Tulane will eliminate any doubts this season as athletic defenders like Glenn and redshirt sophomore guard Rowan Brumbaugh spend time building their brand of ball with their teammates. There is an opportunity to shut up.
Asked about his support for the defensive strategy, Brumbaugh said, “I think it starts with setting an example.” “For example, I have to become a better defender. I also think that since we are playing matchup zone, we have to really agree to play man-to-man and have pride in the players we are defending. If I think about it as a man, I can say things like, “If I let it sink in, what will happen this year?” But at the end of the day, I just have to get it done.”
Last year’s team had to overcome severe adversity on and off the court. But the Green Wave won’t let that shape their expectations for the 2024 team. With a sixth-year head coach and a lot of hungry talent, Tulane hopes to bounce back and show a gritty mindset this season.
“They come in and we feel like we’re the underdog type,” Hunter said. “I love the role, but our expectations will never change. I think we have a team that can compete and win a championship. We’re good enough to do it. He has talent.”