America East Conference report

SportsLine.com report
April 5, 2000

In the paint

At least the Dragons kept their streak alive of winning one conference tournament game each season they've been in the American East by virtue of their upset of Vermont in the quarterfinals.

Except for that, the season had few bright spots, especially with the high hopes the team had entering the season.

2000-2001 glance

First-year coach Steve Seymour didn't really have a chance this season, with preseason first team all-conference forward Joe Linderman only suiting up for two games all season. However, it did allow for younger players to step up and gain valuable experience for next season, including forward Mike Kouser who led the conference in rebounding and should be among the best players in the conference next season.

The coach

It's hard to say much about Seymour, except that he took over at the lowest point in recent school history. This program has had only one other losing season since the 1980s. But the 9-9 conference mark and victory over Vermont in the quarterfinals of the tournament showed the players didn't quit on him.

Who'll be back

The Dragons return two starters -- Kouser and senior-to-be guard Stephen Starks, who scored 25 points in the UVM victory. Other returning players include Robert Battle, David Stec, and Petrick Sanders.

Who's gone

Linderman was one of the best players in conference for the two seasons before the injuries got him this season for a very disappointing conclusion to his career. Other seniors departing include starters Chris Burch, Bryant Coursey and Tom Dearborn.