NCAA Sanctions Thunderbird Summer League At Mesa

Thunderbirds staff to host Tuesdays and Thursdays in July

The NCAA has certified Mesa Community College to host a Summer League open to all NCAA coaches.

For a full schedule of games, please access link MCC Basketball Summer League Schedule.

This league will showcase some of the finest JUCO talent in the country as ACCAC schools continue to stay sharp for the upcoming season that begins with contests in October.

Teams involved in the Thunderbird Summer League include host Mesa Community College, Scottsdale Community College, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, South Mountain Community College, and Grand Canyon University.

The league begins on July 2 and runs each Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of July.

Game times are at 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact MCC Head Coach Sam Ballard at 480-461-7540.

Hamilton Commits To DII Powerhouse NW Missouri State

All-ACCAC 2nd-teamer to suit up in gritty MIAA Conference

Clint Hamilton led the Thunderbirds in scoring and rebounding during the 2008-09 season, scoring 14 points per game and grabbing seven rebounds per.

Now, Hamilton will represent T'Bird Nation in the highly-competitive Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Conference for the Northwest Missouri State Bearcats.

"We are pleased Clint has signed with NW Missouri State, a very prominent DII program in Maryville, Missouri," says Coach Ballard.

Hamilton was twice named Player of the Week in the ACCAC this past season and was honored as a 2nd-team All-Region and All-ACCAC selection for the 19-8 T'Birds.

"Clint was huge for us all year and particularly during a conference semifinals game and a stirring 90-88 victory over Eastern Arizona. We are sorry that we only had Clint for one year, but happy that he is moving on to play for a good school in one of the nation's toughest DII conferences," says Ballard.

The T'Birds surprised everyone but themselves in finishing third in the ACCAC after predictions had the team picked dead last.

"We wish him the very best and will follow his career with great interest," says Ballard.

Youth Camp Set To Cater To Valley Kids And Beyond

Men's Basketball Announces Youth Camp for June 15-19 at Theo Heap Gym

Coach Sam Ballard and his staff will host a Youth Camp on June 15-19. The camp will be held in two session each day. The first session will be geared towards youth in grades 1-4, and will be from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Hall of Fame Coaches Tom Bennett and Royce Youree will be facilitating sessions along with Mesa's current staff of Head Coach Sam Ballard and his assistants Lane Waddell, Mike Grothaus, Josh Kutchinski, and Rex Morrison.

The second session will cater to grades 5-8 and will take place at 10:00 a.m. to noon. Each five-day session costs $100 and directly goes into the Athletic Scholarship and Equipment Funds.

Please contact Coach Sam Ballard at 480-461-7540 or Coach Lane Waddell at 480-966-0892 for more information. Please click below for registration flyer.

2009 THUNDERBIRD MEN'S BASKETBALL YOUTH CAMP

Molesworth Moving On

Swingman off to DII Michigan Tech University

Sophomore basketball player Tyler Molesworth has committed to a fine Division II Program in Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Michigan.

Tyler averaged 10.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per game for the 19-8 Thunberbirds under Head Coach Sam Ballard.

"Tyler did an outstanding job for us this year and is certainly deserving of a chance to move on to the next level. Michigan Tech is getting a wingman who shoots with range and is very athletic," says Coach Ballard.

Molesworth said he was excited to be moving on to the next level at Mesa's Athletic Awards Banquet on Tuesday, April 28.

"Tyler is an extraordinary leader and student and above all else, a wonderful person. We are proud to know him and lucky to have worked with him in the past year. We wish him all the best," says Ballard.

T"Bird Coaching Staff Signs Highly Touted Forward

Mesa now has the East Valley Region Player of the Year, Eric Hunt

Mesa Thunderbird Basketball has signed a premier player out of Mountain View High School in 6'6" forward Eric Hunt.

Hunt was the East Valley Region Player of the Year this past season. He was also chosen as 2nd Team All-State.

"Eric set a school record for rebounds in a season at Mountain View for Coach Gary Ernst. Coach Ernst has had a strong program for many years, so Eric's record is a substantial accomplishment in the lore of Toro Basketball," says Hunt's new coach Sam Ballard.

Hunt is the fourth player signed since the off-season began a short six weeks ago.

"What really attracted us to Eric was his overall competitive attitude and great hustle as a player. Also, the makeup of Eric as a person is a great fit for MCC as well," says Ballard.

Basketball Coaches Sign Another

Lorenzo Velazco, talented wing player from Mesa committs

Coach Sam Ballard and his staff are in the midst of a signing blitz.

Anxious to get the team set for a run at Nationals for 2009-2010, Coach Ballard signed Lorenzo Velazco on Tuesday, April 20, a shooting guard from Mesa High School.

The 6'3" Velazco comes from a solid Mesa High Program coached by Shane Burcar.

"We are excited to sign Lorenzo. He comes from a very strong Mesa High School Program. Lorenzo is a tough, hard-nosed player who fits the MCC mentality as a competitor and as a person," says Coach Ballard.

Vasquez Newest T'Bird

Paradise Valley player comes highly recommended

Coach Sam Ballard and staff have signed Richard Vasquez from Paradise Valley High School.

The 6'5 forward comes highly touted from coaches Bill Farrell and Mark McGowan.

"We are pleased to welcome Richard Vasquez to the MCC team. He had a very successful career at Paradise Valley playing for Coach Mark McGowan. Mark's former coach and long-time mentor, Bill Farrell, also spoke highly of Richard as a player with the work ethic that fits MCC, and as a student who has achieved outstanding grades throughout high school," says Coach Ballard.

Vasquez is the second high-profile signing this off-season as Thunderbird Men's Basketball looks to build upon a strong 2008-09 campaign.

"As a friend and colleague of Bill Farrell for almost 30 years, his recommendation carries tremendous value. Coach McGowan runs an excellent program at PV, so we are happy to get one of his best guys," says Ballard.

Coaching Staff Signs Millennium Prepster Tyler Cargil

6'3" shooting guard fresh off state title

Weeks after the end of the 2008-09 season, Coach Ballard and staff are back on the recruiting trail.

Tyler Cargil comes to Thunderbird Basketball fresh from a state championship at Millennium High School.

"We are very pleased sign Tyler with our Thunderbird Program. Besides being a great young man with a wonderful family background, Tyler is a gifted athlete with a 6'3" frame and a fundamentally sound basketball player," says Ballard.

Cargil played under Coach Mike Lopez at Millenium and enjoyed a state title in 2008.

"Last year we worked hard at building a program with people of good character and we feel Tyler fits the mold very well," added Ballard.

Basketball Coaching Staff Announces Golf Tourney

Fundraiser to raise scholarship money

On Saturday, May 16 at 8:00 a.m. at Dobson Ranch Golf Course, Mesa Community College Men's Basketball will sponsor a golf tournament to raise much needed funds for equipment and scholarships.

To register and find out more information, please click below.

2009 THUNDERBIRD MEN'S BASKETBALL GOLF TOURNEY

Long Bus Ride To Cochise Is Last Ride

Mesa falls 71-64 to Apaches, season ends at 19-8

The 2008-09 Mesa men's basketball program is to be commended for their efforts in proving all of the prognosticators wrong.

Mesa was picked to finish 10th in the ACCAC.

They finished third.

"The effort was supreme. For 39 minutes it was blood and guts. For one minute, we just couldn't complete, " says Head Coach Sam Ballard.

In his first year at the helm, Ballard has helped change the mindset and create an understanding of the high expectations necessary to be a Mesa basketball player. He did all this en route to a 19-win season.

After eight hours on a bus to and from Douglas, Arizona for a Regional Semifinal matchup against Cochise College, a season-long collection of emotions played out in the post-game locker room.

"This has been the best year of my life. I love you guys," said sophomore forward Josh Deanne.

Mesa took a four point lead into the half but was unable to break the Cochise press in the second half, seeing their season come to an abrupt end.

"You guys have to hold your heads up. You did the best you could. You weren't even supposed to be here. The prognosticators picked you tenth. I'm proud of you," said Assistant Coach Josh Kutchinski.

A hostile crowd in a warm gym fueled the fire of the rivalry and Cochise moves on to play Arizona Western at Yuma on Saturday night for the Region I Championship.

"We'll meet on Monday and decide where we go from here. We'll meet with our sophomores to help place them and we'll meet with our freshman to gauge their thoughts. We love all of our kids and would love to see all of our freshman back," says Ballard.

Mesa Roars Back For Win

Down 8 with 1:12 to play, Mesa moves on 90-88

If ever there was a time to bear down and play defense to have a chance to win a game, Tuesday night at Theo Heap Gym during the men's game against Eastern Arizona with 1:12 to play was the perfect time.

Mesa's total team effort paired with gritty free throws from Josh Deanne, some monster threes from Keawe Enos in the waning moments, and pure guts from Connor Isley, brought the Thunderbirds back from sure demise.

Enos led the way with 23 points before fouling out. Clint Hamilton hit for 20 and nine rebounds. Isley scored 15 and dished out nine dimes.

"This team just doesn't want it to end," said Coach Sam Ballard in Mesa's post-game locker room.

Josh Deanne sure didn't want it to end. Hitting on two clutch free throws with nine seconds remaining to give Mesa a one-point lead. Eastern then took a one-point lead themselves with seven seconds to play on two free throws.

Then, with three seconds left, Deanne caught a pass from Connor Isley underneath, got hammered, put it on the glass and in, and crashed to the floor as the gym erupted. The basket was good. The free throw after was good. Mesa was good for a 90-88 victory.

A see-saw affair throughout with neither team leading by more than 10, Mesa fans didn't want to see their entire baskeball season end in the same night. The women were knocked off by Glendale in the previous game.

Mesa had a tough time with the versatile slashing Mike James. James notched 31 for the Monsters.

"You guys deserve this win. You never gave up and we've got more to do," said Coach Grothaus.

Mesa's guard play was up for the challenge as Danny Carter and Connor Isley penetrated and created throughout the second half to free up big shot after big shot down the stretch.

"I can't tell you guys how proud of you I am," said Coach Royce Youree in the post-game locker room. "Coach Bennett looked over at me down the stretch and said if we get to 90, a good defensive team should win."

The two Hall-of-Famers chuckled to each other as Coach Sam Ballard and the bunch listened attentively. Ballard looked overcome with emotion as he knew his staff coached their tails off to help the T'Birds get the win.

"You guys never gave up and that's all we've ever stressed to you all year. It's never over until we say it's over," said Coach Josh Kutchinski.

Seth Richens and Danny Carter both chipped in with nine apiece as Mesa moves on to play Cochise Thursday night in Douglas at 7:30 p.m.

T'Birds End Regular Season With Win, Eastern AZ First Up

85-79 ovetime win vs. Pima gets Mesa to 18-7, Hamilton named to ACCAC and Region 2nd-teams

Coach Sam Ballard ended his inagural season with the Mesa Thunderbirds with a hard-fought win against a gritty Pima Aztec bunch.

It wasn't easy as no games were this regular season. In fact, it took five extra minutes to decide the affair. Clint Hamilton's 18 points and 21 rebounds helped decide the outcome.

In the end, it was Mesa 85-79 and the Thunderbirds notched the 3-seed in the Region I playoffs that begin Tuesday night at 7:30 at the Theo Heap Gym. The T'Birds posted a 15-7 ACCAC record.

The opponent will be Eastern Arizona. Mesa won both regular season matchups, taking the first game back on November 19, 73-71 at home. On January 24, Mesa went to Thatcher and won 88-83.

If Mesa wins for the third time against Eastern, they will travel to Cochise on Thursday, March 5 to play the 2-seed.

In season-ending awards, Clint Hamilton was named to both the Second Team All-ACCAC and the Second Team All-Region Division I.

Mesa Clinches #3 Seed, To Host Playoff Tuesday, March 3

Scottsdale knocks off Eastern AZ to assure Mesa 3rd spot, Mesa rocks Yavapai, 74-49

Coach Sam Ballard is enjoying a nice run through his first year at the helm of the Mesa Thunderbirds Basketball Program.

Now, he's been assured of a home playoff game on Tuesday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Theo Heap Gym.

After a 74-49 drubbing of Yavapai on Tuesday, Mesa now sits alone in 3rd place in the ACCAC at 14-7 and 17-7 overall.

Balanced scoring has become the M.O. for the T'Birds, and the scenario was no different in Prescott.

Clint Hamilton led Mesa with 13 point and nine rebounds. Seth Richens scored 11 to go along with five boards. Keawe Enos notched 10.

"I know it sounds cliche, but we still need to focus game by game in order to accomplish our goal of getting to and winning a national championship," says Ballard.

One game on the regular docket remains for Mesa, and it tips at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, February 27 at the Theo Heap Gym.

l

A Game For The Ages

Mesa digs deep for win over 2nd -place Cochise

Former Coach Tom Bennett said it best. "I'm proud to be a T'Bird. It's how good you are at the end of the year that counts."

The end of the year is looking pretty good for Coach Sam Ballard and the rest of the Mesa Thunderbirds.

A see-saw second-half battle saw Mesa come out on top, 87-80.

It wasn't that close in the early stages of the second half as Mesa built an 18-point lead. Conner Isley hit a half-court shot as time expired in the first half.

Cochise would come back, as their record of 21-5 would indicate and actually take a lead with 3:15 to play, 76-75.

Mesa would hunker down defensively as Tyler Molesworth and Josh Deanne played possessed. Add in four straight clutch free throws from Seth Richens and the recipe is another Mesa win.

Former Coach Royce Youree stated in the post-game locker room cool down that everyone did their job and he was extremely proud.

Mesa men have to be proud along with Coach Youree after a win like that.

Balanced scoring across the board was another key in the outcome as Mesa had five scoring ijn double figures.

Tyler Molesworth, Seth Richens, and Connor Isley led the way with 16 apiece. Keawe Enow hit for 14, and Deonte Roberts scored 12.

Some staunch defense down in the post from Josh Deanne and Clint Hamilton, along with some picture perfect dish outs from the guard position by Chubby Henderson and Weylan Towns were also keys to victory.

"We needed that one, we stayed with it. A hard fought, great win," says Coach Sam Ballard.

Mesa will look for another key win on Saturday, February 21 at 7:30 in the Theo Heap Gym against 1st-place Arizona Western.

Mesa Men Continue Dominance

94-69 drubbing of South Mountain is Mesa's 15th of season

Mesa is now 15-6 overall and 12-6 in the ACCAC Division I standings. Their latest blowout victory came at the expense of the South Mountain Cougars.

At 12-6, Mesa is one game ahead of Eastern Arizona for third place. The top four teams make the Region I Playoffs.

Clint Hamilton led the way for Mesa with 20 points. Blair Nelson also came through with 19 big points for the T'Birds.

"We were expecting to continue the high-energy, tough defense we exhibited in the Scottsdale game the week before. We were happy to see that happen," says Head Coach Sam Ballard.

Mesa has four games remaining to hopefully surpass second-place Cochise, who is 15-3 in the ACCAC.

Wednesday night, February 18 at 7:30 p.m. would be a great time to gain a game on the team in front of them as Cochise visits Theo Heap Gym.

Scottsdale No Match For Ballard's T'Birds

72-47 win showcases Mesa defense, holds onto 3rd place

Mesa needed a win and they got a big one.

In a game dominated by Mesa's defense early turned into a rout late.

Mesa ran out to a 30-7 lead late in the first half on some heady defense. The game got a bit closer early in the second half, but Mesa was never really threatened.

This was a very important victory for us. The coaching staff has been stressing the passion and desire needed to play a complete defensive game. This execution was exactly what we practiced," says Assistant Coach Josh Kutchinski.

Mesa held onto the 3rd-place slot in the ACCAC Division I standings. They are now 11-6 in the conference, one game up on Eastern Arizona.

With five games remaining, Mesa needs to remain in the top four to make regional playoffs.

Next up for the Thunderbirds is a road game at South Mountain this Saturday, February 14 at 4:00 p.m.

T'Birds Slam Coyotes

10-4 in the ACCAC now with 92-75 win

The Mesa Thunderbirds are hitting their stride. With their latest road win Saturday night over Chandler-Gilbert, the team is now 13-4 overall and 10-4 in the conference.

Mesa Holds Off Vaqueros

90-85 win gives Mesa sole possession of 3rd place

Mesa Basketball got a huge home win Wednesday night at Theo Heap Gym over Central Arizona College.

Mesa now stands at 9-4 in the ACCAC and Central drops to 8-5. Overall, Mesa is 12-4. This game was critical because only the top four teams make the regional playoffs. Mesa positioned themselves to be one of those four teams.

"No game has been easy this year in this league. We are happy to get the win and we will continue to take it one game at a time," says Coach Ballard.

Ballard knows the significance of sole possession of third place at this point in the season. So did his players.

Clint Hamilton led the way with 23 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Josh Deanne played big as well with 13 points, five rebounds, and two big blocks. Tyler Molesworth followed up his player-of-the-week nomination with 10 points, nine boards, and five dimes.

In all, Mesa shot considerably better from the field in hitting on 55% of their field goals.

Dominique Saunders led the way for CAC with 19 points.

Mesa hits the road for two before returning home next Saturday, February 7 at 4:00 p.m. in a matchup with Glendale. This Saturday night, the team travels to Chandler-Gilbert. Next Wednesday, Phoenix College will be waiting. Both road games are set to tip at 7:30 p.m.

To see just how tight the ACCAC Division I race is, access the following link:

http://www.pc.maricopa.edu/athletics/ACCAC/basketm/2009/standings.html

Molesworth Named Player Of The Week

Sophomore guard continuing strong season

Mesa's Tyler Molesworth is the ACCAC Division I Men's Basketball Player of the Week. Molesworth helped the T-birds to a pair of ACCAC wins last week. He opened the week with 19 points, nine rebounds and connected on all three of his shots from behind the 3-point arc as Mesa defeated Pima. Molesworth then had 19 points in a win over Eastern Arizona.

Thunderbirds Take Both Games This Week

Team now 8-4 in the ACCAC, 11-4 overall

The Mesa Thunderbirds are beginning to find their stroke.

After another road win over the weekend in Thatcher over Eastern Arizona, the Thunderbirds are moving up in the ACCAC statistics across the board. The final Saturday night was 88-83.

Tyler Molesworth led the way with 19 points and four assists. Seth Richens had his best effort thus far with 16 points and eight boards. Keawe Enos also came up big for Mesa with 15 points in the victory over Eastern.

Mesa moved up two spots in the conference in team scoring with a 74.2 ppg average. The team also improved one spot in field goal percentage with a .452 clip.

The team is third in the conference at 8-4. Defensively, Mesa is second in the league, allowing only 70.8 ppg.

Coach Ballard's bunch is also fifth overall in 3-point percentage, shooting 38% from beyond the arc.

Upcoming games this week include a home game Wednesday evening at 7:30 against Central Arizona. Saturday the team hits the road in Chandler-Gilbert. That game tips at 7:30 as well.

Mesa Outduels Pima On The Road

78-68 victory over the Aztecs is fifth victory in last seven games

Coach Sam Ballard and his bunch showed no signs of letdown after a grueling contest with Yavapai last Saturday night in the MLK Classic.

They have now won two straight after handling Pima 78-68 Wednesday night in Tucson. The Thunderbirds are now 7-4 in the ACCAC and 10-4 overall.

"It was a big road win for us and a nice way to finish up the first half of the conference schedule," says Coach Mike Grothaus.

Tyler Molesworth continued his elevated play scoring 19 points and pulling down nine rebounds.

Clint Hamilton hit for 14 points and nabbed 11 boards. Josh Deanne also scored 14 points, and also cleaned the glass for eight rebounds.

Mesa travels to Thatcher to take on Eastern Arizona Saturday night January 24. The tipoff comes at 7:30 p.m.

Hamilton Named Player of the Week

Sophomore guard/ small forward averages double-double in two games during week

Mesa's Clint Hamilton is the ACCAC Men's Basketball Division I Player of the Week. Hamilton had 27 points and 17 rebounds in a 72-60 win over South Mountain. He then scored 14 points and grabbed seven boards in a loss to Cochise.

Thunderbirds Blast Mountaineers

Mesa pulls away against Canadian team, 105-59

Mesa is now 7-2 overall after a 105-59 drubbing of Mowhawk College out of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

The team from up north has been on the road since Sunday and was no match for the run-n-gun style of Mesa.

Tyler Molesworth led Mesa with 19 points and six rebounds. Jason O'Brien had 14 points and Josh Deanne added 15 for the T'Birds.

In a pre-game ceremony, Mesa showed their hospitality by giving a gift bag to each of the players from Mohawk. Both Canadian and American National Anthems were played prior to the game in a courteous welcome to the foreigners.

Mesa now takes a break for the holiday season and will return to action on Wednesday, January 7 at home versus South Mountain. Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Mesa Too Much For Scottsdale

Now third in ACCAC Division I at 6-2

Mesa took control of the game early and outlasted Scottsdale 84-73 on Saturday night on the road to move to 4-2 in the ACCAC Division I standings and 6-2 overall.

Clint Hamilton led the way for the T'Birds with 17 points and eight rebounds. Hamilton is among the scoring leaders in the ACCAC with a 12.1 ppg average.

Josh Deanne added 14 points and seven boards, Blair Nelson chipped in 13, and Connor Isley scored six point to go along with eight dimes.

"This was a big road win for us," says Assistant Coach Mike Grothaus.

The men take on Mohawk University from Canada on Wednesday night, December 17 at the friendly confines of Theo Heap Gym. Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.

T'Birds Fall In Glendale

Mesa now 5-2 on the season

Mesa fell to 3-2 in the ACCAC on Wednesday night in Glendale.

Coach Sam Ballard's team was able to muster only five free throw attempts the entire game. They had zero attempts going into the break.

Glendale went to the line over 20 times. The final was 88-80.

"We didn't shoot the ball very well. We got good looks, but didn't knock them down," says Ballard.

The men get back into action Saturday night, December 13 at Scottsdale at 7:30 p.m.

Ballard's Bunch Bounces Back

Move to 5-1 on the season with Enos buzzer beater

After falling from the ranks of the unbeatens, Coach Sam Ballard was excited to see how his young team would respond.

Respond, they did.

A tight first stanza foreshadowed an even tighter second. A 26-21 lead for the Thunderbirds disappeared with 7:36 to play as Phoenix tied it at 55. Two Blair Nelson free-throws put Mesa back on top.

It was neck and neck down the stretch with both teams playing staunch defense. The game would come down to the final inbounds play for Mesa.

Tied at 68, Coach Josh Kutchinski was handed the clipboard to draw it up.

"I used this play before, and by no means is this my play, but it worked to the tune of a High School Conference Championship back in Michigan for me," says Coach Kutchinski.

The inbounds play is call "Home Run" and it calls for guards to sprint down the court on either side while the postman darts up to the top of the key from the opposite baseline. Very similar to the play in the 1992 East Regional Final, when Christian Laettner received a court-long pass from Grant Hill, sending Duke to the Final Four on one of the most improbable plays in the history of March Madness.

The intrigue wasn't quite the same, yet the play worked to perfection for Mesa Saturday night.

Connor Isley inbounded a three-quarter court pass to Josh Deanne. Deanne started at the opposite low-post.

As Keawe Enos and Clint Hamilton flashed towards the ball, then immediately broke towards their own goal, Enos perched at the top of the three-point arc on the left wing to receive a perfect pass from Deanne.

Each pass in this succession had to be perect for this play to have a chance.

They were.

As Enos caught in stride, feet set, ball launched...twine was rippled and crowd jumped in elation as the buzzer sounded.

Mesa 71-68. See you next Wednesday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the Theo Heap Gym as the T'Birds look to go 6-1 against Mohawk University out of Canada.

T'Birds Come Up Short, No Longer Unbeaten

Chandler-Gilbert's torrid shooting downs Mesa, 73-65

A first half plagued by missed shots was too much to overcome as Coach Sam Ballard and the Thunderbirds suffered their first loss of the season.

The Thunderbirds are receiving national poll votes and look to get back on track Saturday, December 6 at 4:00 p.m. in the Theo Heap Gym against Phoenix College.

Leading the way for Mesa was Josh Deanne with 10 points and seven rebounds. Deonte Roberts provided energy off the bench and scored eight to go along with eight boards.

Weylan Towns also chipped in with some added strength off the bench and scored 10 points.

In the end, the hot shooting of John Jackson (25 points) and Andre Strozier (17 points) was too much for Mesa to overcome.

Winning Continues On The Road

T'Birds 4-0 with victory at CAC

The Mesa Men's Basketball Program is hitting their stride.

The team is off to a 4-0 start after winning at Central Arizona on Saturday, November 22. The Vaqueros were the T'Birds latest prey, 70-67.

For a full writeup of the road game pleas view link below from Trivalleycentral.com. Tri-Valley Central is a consortium of news resources in the Casa Grande area.

Leading scorers for Mesa were Clint Hamilton (14) and Blair Nelson (13).

Link to story...

Mesa Thunderbirds defeat Central Arizona Vaqueros

TBirds Prevail In Nail-Biter

Gritty play key in 73-71 win over Eastern

Coach Sam Ballard's tenacious recruiting efforts are paying immediate dividends. His Thunderbirds are 3-0 and 1-0 in the ACCAC after a hard-fought win over Eastern Arizona Wednesday night, November 19 at Theo Heap Gym.

Leading the way offensively for the T'Birds was freshman guard out of Gilbert, Daniel Carter. Carter had 13 and three assists.

Contributing to the balance offensive attack was 6'6" sophomore forward out of Houston, Texas, Clint Hamilton. Hamilton's 12 points and three rebounds were pivotal.

Sophomore guard from Mountain Pointe, Connor Isly scored 11 points and notched seven boards for the unbeaten T'Birds.

The game was a back-and -forth contest. Eastern point-guard Mike James' 23 points led the way for the Gila Monsters, but it was the 11 points and 17 rebounds from 6'8" forward Donald Johnson that gave Ballard and company fits all night down low.

Legendary coaches Royce Youree and Tom Bennett heralded the team afterwards in the locker room.

"Coach Bennett and I could not be more proud of the effort you men put forth tonight," said Coach Youree. Youree also mentioned how good it felt to be back involved with Thunderbird basketball.

Mesa travels to Coolidge Saturday, November 22 for a matchup against Central Arizona. The men tipoff at 7:30 after the women's contest.

Mesa To Open Conference Play At Home Against Eastern

Coach Ballard and staff ready to roll

"Mesa Thunderbird Basketball is in good hands," says Mesa Sports Hall of Fame Coach Tom Bennett.

Their 2-0 record and win over the #5-team in the country in Moberly is testament to that.

After an eventful recruitng season, the T'Birds take the Theo Heap Gym Wednesday night, Novemeber 19 at 7:30 p.m. against ACCAC rival Eastern Arizona.

Follow the action live or visit www.swsn.net to listen in on all the action.

Mesa Hoopsters Take Moberly Tourney

T'Birds win Missouri tournament, 2-0 on season

New Head Coach Sam Ballard is off to a rousing start to the 2008-09 campaign. His T'Birds went to Moberly, Missouri and beat MSU- West Plains 65-59, then took out tourney host Moberly 73-71 in overtime.

Moberly had been ranked as high as 5th in the national polls. The T'Birds quick attack and strong-guard play helped overcome some size disadvantages.

"Things went really well and we are extremebly proud of how our guys fought to win this tournament," says Head Coach Sam Ballard.

Mesa takes the court again on November 19 at home at 7:30 p.m.against Eastern Arizona as ACCAC conference play begins.

Two Coaching Legends To Hold Defensive Coaching Camp

Coaches Tom Bennett and Royce Youree Offer Philosophies On "D" in October

Click here to view "Day on D" event flyer for October 18, 2008 at 8:30 a.m.

Click Here To Register For "Day on D" Seminar

Men's Basketball Signs Another- Practice Set To Start October 1

Weylan Towns Newest Thunderbird- Practice schedule and scrimmages set

Marcos De Niza Standout Towns To Bolster Backcourt

Coaching staff prepping for October practices

Mesa Thunderbird men's basketball coaches are solidifying their roster. Coaches Ballard, Waddell, Grothaus, and Kutchinski have key pieces in place for some a couple October scrimmages culminating with a pre-season tournament in Moberly, Missouir on October 31-November 1, 2008.

Weylan Towns is the newest piece to that Thunderbird puzzle.

"Weylan is a terrific addition to our backcourt. He is very quick and skilled
and I have seen him many times while coaching at Mountain Pointe, as he comes
from our former Central Region rival Marcos de Niza. On top of that, Weylan
is a wonderful person with an infectuous personality and smile- a great fit
for us," says Head Coach Sam Ballard.

Mesa Men's Basketball takes the court for practices in the Theo Heap Gymnasium on the campus Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The team will participate in a retreat at the Northern Arizona University Campus in Flagstaff on Friday through Sunday, October 10-12.

The team will scrimmage the Arizona Legends on Wednesday, October 15 at 7:00 p.m. at home and the Arizona Kings on October 21 at 7:00 p.m. at home.

Coaching Staff Signs Two More Recruits

Ballard, Waddell, and Grothaus sign Arcadia and Red Mountain prepsters

Deonte Roberts

Deonte Roberts from Red Mountain is the third player to sign from Coach Greg Sessions' squad. The 6'4" forward was one of the leading rebounders in the state. He had 25 rebounds in one game this past season.

Charles Ward, a 6'2" guard from Arcadia High School also joins the Thunderbirds basketball program. Ward is a very athletic guard and an All-State selection in 4A while playing on the state all star squad.

"We are very pleased with the addition of these two fine young men. Deonte completes a trio of very athletic players that we signed from Red Mountain High School in Mesa. He runs the floor extremely well, is very athletic and is a terrific rebounder for his size. He is also physically strong. Charles Ward is also a very athletic player with a natural ability to slash and get to the basket. he is a great addition to our perimeter, which we feel is very strong," says Coach Sam Ballard.

Thunderbird Basketball Hosts Arizona High School Team Camp

15 schools compete at MCC in inaugural camp

Gilbert Freshmen MCC Team Camp Champions

The Mesa men's basketball team hosted their first Team Camp, June 6-8. Fifteen teams from across the valley and Tucson participated in the clinic and camp.

There were three divisions- freshmen, junior varsity and varsity. The competition at all three levels
was exactly what coaches were looking for.

The freshman division crowned Gilbert High School champions. The junior varsity winners were from Mesquite High School, and Globe High School captured a very competive varsity division.

Mesquite Junior Varsity MCC Team Camp Champions

Coach Ballard and his staff were excited about the tournout and the feedback. "This was great. The level of play was outstanding, and there was mid-season effort from all the players and coaches. We look forward to this continuing for years to come," says Coach Sam Ballard.

Globe Varsity MCC Team Camp Champions

Although the season is months away, players and coaches prepare year-round to put a quality product on the court each and every year. This camp affords those area schools the ability to network about the game they love- basketball.

Jessie Childs Offered Scholarship To Wisconsin-Green Bay

Will play in talent-laden Horizon League

Mesa Community College standout point guard Jessie Childs has been given a full scholarship to attend the University of Wisconsin at Green Bay. The team nickname, the Phoenix, is apropos for the guard heralded as one of the best in the city that bears his new team nickname.

Childs averaged 16 points per game, four rebounds per game, six assists per game, and two steals per game. His 78 percent shooting at the charity stripe was tops on the team and among the leaders in the ACCAC.

Childs will have his work cut out for him with contests against powerhouses out of the Big Ten- Ohio State, Michigan State, and Wisconsin, and ACC stalwarts, the Clemson Tigers.

Those challenging matchups will undoubtedly manifest growth in skill for the eldest of six. The son of a former NBA star Chris Childs, Jessie grew up going to Knicks and Jazz games.

The Godson of Karl Malone, Childs has played against the likes of Derrick Rose (Memphis Tiger standout) and OJ Mayo (USC) and understands what it takes to elevate his game.

"The Phoenix need a point guard to come in and take care of the ball. If I work hard and do what I need to do, I should start games," says Childs.

He'll find out soon enough as summer camp opens on July 2 and runs through July 18.

Childs moved to Phoenix two years ago on his own to pursue basketball, business management and communcations. He attended Boys To Men Prep in Chicago prior to moving west.

Although he misses his family, Childs knows they have always been a source of support for him.

"My mom was at all my games and my Grandpa (Ed Jacoby) helped me alot as well," says Childs.

Jacoby was a coach for the Olympic Track and Field team in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. His mother Karla, sells real estate in Idaho.

Childs' sister Jenny is currently working out with their father in Idaho. Jenny is playing basketball at Northern Arizona. Childs' father Chris is a NBA D-League assistant coach in Louisiana.

Wisconsin-Green Bay Head Coach Tod Kowalczyk now has a new member to run the offense for the Phoenix, straight from the Valley of the Sun.

Three More Commit To Mesa Program

Enos, Prinsloo, and Carter are now T'Birds

Daniel Carter, his parents, Coach Ballard

Mesa's basketball coaches are building their program with some of the best local talent, and these latest three young men bring an array of skills that will give Mesa much more depth.

Daniel Carter, a 6'2" point guard out of Gilbert High School, was a 1st-Team All Fiesta Region player this past year. Gilbert Head Coach Jay Casserio sends his player to Mesa with confidence.

"We are very pleased to have Daniel Carter join our team. He is an intense competitor and a very intelligent player. He led a very successful Gilbert team this past season. Daniel is exactly the kind of young man that Mesa basketball is looking for," says Mesa Head Coach Sam Ballard.

Also signing on with the T'Birds are 6'2" shooting guard Keawe Enos, and 6'9" forward Bryn Prinsloo. Both of these fine players attended Red Mountain High School where they played for Coach Greg Sessions.

"We are very fortunate to have gotten commitments from Keawe and Bryn. Both are great young men who have outstanding potential. They played in one of the toughest regions in the state and were recognized for their achievements by being all region selections. Both are also outstanding students. I have known and respected Greg Sessions for a long time and am pleased to be able to work with some of his players," says Ballard.

Mesa basketball is surely building a strong foundation for 2009 and the ACCAC best be ready for continued excellence from this program.

David Jackson To Play In The WAC For Louisiana Tech

Powerful forward back to menace former conference foes

David Jackson in action in 2008 for Mesa

Louisiana Tech Men's Basketball Head Coach Kerry Rupp has signed Mesa Thunderbird star forward David Jackson to play for the Bulldogs out of the Western Athletic Conference for the 2008-2009 season.

A four-year starter out of Rincon High School in Tucson, Jackson played one season at Idaho State before transferring to Mesa Community College. Jackson averaged 16.6 ppg, seven rpg, and two blocks per game in 2008 for the Thunderbirds. His 59% from the field and 78% from the line led the team in both categories.

"David worked extremely hard all season in all phases of his game and it has paid off for the Mesa basketball program and for Daivd as an individual," says John Mulhern. Mulhern was Jackson's head basketball coach for the 2008 season at Mesa.

The versatile 6'8" swingman can play the three and the four spot.

"I think we can compete for the WAC title in 08-09," says Jackson.

He ought to. With transfers coming in from powerhouses such as LSU, Oklahoma State, and Nebraska, the Bulldogs have nowhere to go but up.

Jackson visited the campus of Louisiana Tech in March and got to visit with Hall of Famer Karl "The Mailman" Malone. Malone is a La. Tech alum and a key contributor to the Bulldog program.

"Mr. Malone told me that if I work hard, the Bulldogs will win this year," says Jackson.

Jackson hopes to win 20 games and have a chance to make it into the NCAAs. He understands that basketball is an opportunity for him and sometimes an escape from the everyday grind that life brings.

The business major says he is happy he went to D-I first then to JUCO ball, not the other way around. He played for the Vandals of Idaho State, also out of the WAC.

"I realized early on how political things can get in the NCAA. Coming to play JUCO ball, I got a chance to hone my skills and really put myself and my team out there," says Jackson.

Jackson's new coach Kerry Rupp was an interim coach at Utah and was pivotal in developing Andrew Bogut. That camaraderie with big men will help Jackson adjust back into the D-I style.

"Coach Rupp knows how to work with bigger guys, and with my leaping ability, that should be great for me," says Jackson.

Jackson has two older brothers, a mother that lives in Glendale, and his number one fan, his father, living in Houston.

"Pops is my number one fan, always has been," says Jackson.

David can rest assured that he has plenty of other fans in the Phoenix area that will follow his progress with Louisiana Tech this coming fall.

Coach Ballard Welcomes Former Staff's Standout

Josh James signs out of Gilbert Highland

Josh James, his parents, Coach Ballard

Josh James is the newest Thunderbird basketball player, and he comes the way of an old friend. Gilbert Highland High School Coach Mark Carlino sends his 6'3" star guard to Mesa and his former cohort, Sam Ballard. Carlino was on Ballard's staff at Camelback High School.

The Hawks were ranked #1 most of this season in Division I 5A and James was a big reason for that ranking.

"Josh is a great young man with an outstanding upbringing. He has a good looking jump shot and has a tremendous desire to better himself, which is definitely what we are looking for," says Coach Ballard.

New Staff Inks Third Recruit This Month

David "Chubby" Henderson, Jr. signs on

David Henderson, his father, Coaches Grothaus and Waddell

Coaches Ballard, Waddell, and Grothaus have had a busy month. They are readying their basketball team for the 2008 fall season, and the third piece is now in place.

David "Chubby" Henderson, Jr, a 6'0" point guard out of Hamilton High School in Chandler is the newest T'Bird. Chubby's coach Kevin Hartwig utilized his point guard's prowess, along with the rest of the Hamilton Huskies, to advance to the 5-A state semi-finals this year.

"We have seen Chubby play several times and have always been impressed with his intelligence and demeanor. He quarterbacked a great team this season," says Coach Ballard.

Recruits Pouring In To Mesa Basketball Program

Coach signs Alex Rudd out of Mesquite High School

Alex Rudd and Coach Ballard

Coach Sam Ballard and Assistant Lane Waddell have added another piece to the Mesa basketball puzzle. His name is Alex Rudd.

Rudd, a 6'4" guard from Mesaquite High School is highly touted and was coached by Tom Saltzstein for four years.

"Alex is a very athletic and intelligent player. He comes highly recommended from a coach we respect," says Ballard.

Sam Ballard Named New Men's Coach

Ten seasons at Mountain Pointe, ready for MCC

Sam Ballard has been named new head basketball coach for the Mesa Thunderbirds men's team. Ballard replaces John Mulhern, who was interim coach and not an applicant for the full-time position.
Mulhern has been acting Athletic Director for the past year in addition to coaching the men's team to a strong 18-9 record this past year. Mulhern, assistants Joe Ward, Manny Canales, Ryan Cuff, and Michael Schwertley took Mesa within two points of the ACCAC title game.
Ballard spent the last ten years coaching at Mountain Pointe boy's basketball team and won 66 percent of his contests there (171-90). Prior to coaching at Mountain Pointe, Ballard coached at Camelback High School and Yavapai College. A protege of Tom Bennett and Royce Youree, Ballard is expected to take a program on the rise and turn it into a perennial contender in the ACCAC.

Head Coaching Records

Playoffs Here, T'Birds Ready

16-6 in the ACACC, T'Birds ready for Cochise

Head Coach John Mulhern will lead his staff and squad into the team's first home playoff game in eight years on Tuesday, March 4, 2008 against Cochise at 7:30 p.m. The team finished the regular season at 18-7 overall and 16-6 in the ACCAC, tied for third place. A win would send the men to Thatcher and a showdown with second-place Eastern AZ. on Thursday, March 6 for a chance to travel to AZ Western for the ACCAC title game.
The team, comprised of sophomores Taylor Janowicz, David Jackson, Andre Simmons, John Pena, Jessie Childs, Jamie Crim, and Rodney Brown, and freshmen Marcos Perkins, Maurice Jackson, Tyler Molesworth, Blair Nelson, Kenny Shaw, and Jonas Pollard have jelled as a unit and avenged a one-point, controversial loss to South Mountain earlier in the season on Friday night. The T'Birds turned the tables and got a one-point win for themselves, 72-71, in one of the most exciting games in the Theo Heap Gym in years.
Mulhern's staff of Joe Ward, Ryan Cuff, and Michael Schwertley have been pivotal in the team's success and are hopeful the team can bring home an ACCAC championship.

T'Birds To Host First Playoff Game In Eight Years

Win over #11 team in country, AZ Western, assures home matchup

Head Coach John Mulhern has plenty of reasons to smile about his first campaign at the helm of Mesa basketball. His team is going to host a playoff game- the school's first since 2000.
In beating Arizona Western on Saturday night, February 23, the Thunderbirds clinched a home playoff game and sit in third place in the ACCAC. They have a chance in catching Eastern Arizona for second place.
Arizona Western had been 17-1 in the conference prior to Mesa coming into town. Mesa downed the nationally-ranked club 66-59.
"We played as good as you can play- with composure. We also hit some huge free throws down the stretch. It was a great game for Mesa basketball," said Mulhern.
Rodney Brown led the charge with 16 points. John Pena added 14 and Jessie Childs hit for 13.
Mesa has two regular season games remaining against Cochise on Tuesday, February 26 and at home on Friday, February 29 against South Mountain.
At 15-5 in the ACCAC and 17-6 overall, the Thunderbirds know the championship of the ACCAC goes through Arizona Western.
"It was huge beating the #11 team in the country in their own back yard. If we can get here again in a couple weeks, they'll remember us and I think that gives us an advantage," said Mulhern.
Clearly the psychological advantage of beating the conference leaders in their home gym boosts the confidence of Mesa. If Mesa can get the second spot in the ACCAC, they will only have to win one playoff game before going to Arizona Western for the ACCAC crown.
Nationals begin on March 18 in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Mesa Now 15-6 With Victory Over Central AZ

T'Birds pull away in 93-77 win, 13-5 in the ACCAC

Looking to rebound after a disappointing loss to Glendale last week, the T'Birds resembled a team that has a firm grasp on 4th place in the ACCAC and looking to move up.

With Regionals quickly approaching and the National Tournament in Hutchinson, KS. not far beyond that, the T'Birds are positioning themselves for a deep run in the playoffs.

Trailing only South Mountain at 14-4, Eastern Arizona at 14-4, and the #11 team in the country Arizona Western at 17-1, Mesa still has games remaining against AZ Western and South Moutain. The South Mountain game on February 29 in Mesa may determine the third place team in the ACCAC.

Head Coach John Mulhern and his staff now prepare for Phoenix College on Wednesday, February 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Coach Schwertley instructs Crim

T'Birds Throttle Pima, 115-63

Mesa too much for Aztecs, now 12-5 overall

Mesa hosted Pima Satruday night and the game was over rather quickly. Winning by its largest margin of the year, 52 points, Mesa dominated the entire way.

Balanced offense and stout defense was the recipe for this one. Jamie Crim came through with his strongest performance thus far, scoring 11 and pulling down eight boards.

John Pena continued his stellar offensive season, scoring 16. Maurice Jackson added 18 points and David Jackson scored 17 to go along with eight rebounds.

Now 12-5 on the year, Mesa travels to Chandler-Gilbert for a huge ACCAC matchup Wednesday night, February 6 at 7:30 p.m.

T'Birds Now 11-5 On Year With Big Win Over Eastern Arizona

Mesa dominates #2 team in the ACCAC, 61-44

Eastern beat Mesa earlier in the year 89-77 in Thatcher. This time, it was in Mesa- and it was all Mesa.

The T'Birds dominated the entire game, leading by as many as 25 and cruised to their ninth victory in the ACCAC against only four defeats. In doing so, the T'Birds pulled within one game of Eastern for second place in the conference.

David Jackson led all scorers with 19 points on four of six from beyond the arc. Jessie Childs was the only other player in double-figures with ten points and seven boards.

Mesa dominated the glass by the margin of 41-30 and looked the faster team all night.

Next up for the Thunderbirds is Pima on Saturday, February 2. Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Jessie Childs Elevates (photo by Philip Pollard)

Mesa Improves To 10-3 With Win In MLK Classic

T'Birds hold off Cochise 94-84

The Mesa men's basketball team is making a serious run at the ACCAC title and improved to 10-3 overall with a decisive 94-84 win over Cochise in the Martin Luther King Jr. Basketball Classic held at Mesa on Saturday, January 19.
The Boston Celtics have their Big 3, and Mesa is establishing their version. The trio of Jessie Childs, David Jackson, and John Pena combined for 64 points. Childs had 24 to go along with five rebounds and six assists. Jackson had 18 points and 12 boards, to notch another double-double. Pena finished with 22 points and four assists.
"Another player had a coming out party tonight as well," said Assistant Coach Manny Canales.
Taylor Janowicz hit for 12 points and 11 rebounds, notching his first double-double of the year.
Mesa's next two games are on the road against Scottsdale and South Mountain, Wednesday the 23rd and Saturday the 26th. Both games tip at 7:30 p.m.
The Mesa women played Cochise earlier in the evening and lost 91-60.

Hoopsters Run To 8-2 With Win Over Vaqueros

Mesa storms out of halftime gates to pull away 89-72

Coach Ward really gets into his team's performances- so much in fact, Coach Mulhern simply lends moral support, throws in some wise words of roundball wisdom, then takes his seat at the far left of the bench, next to the scorer's table.
Speaking of that scorer's table, it was being lit up again and again by the Mesa Thunderbirds. After last night, the team should now be pressing for votes in the national polls, with their latest victory over the Central Arizona Vaqueros, 89-72. (more)

The team is really starting to find themselves and mesh as a unit. It was never more evident than in the Theo Heap Gym last night. Marred in a tight battle at the half, Mesa sharpshooter John Pena, who lead Mesa with 25 points, and Shawn-Marionesque David Jackson, propelled the T'Birds past a gritty CAC squad. Jackson's line looked like this- 17 points, 11 boards, two blocks, and a bevy of shot-changing defensive plays that kept CAC off kilter all evening.
Assistant Coach Michael Schwertley offered his defensive prowess throughout the game to his big men. He should know about defense being the son of former NBA All-Pro "Truck" Robinson. Along with Assistant Coach Ryan Cuff's acute attention to detail regarding player fouls and stats, this T'Bird bunch is a well-oiled machine looking to do some damage in the ACCAC and beyond in 2008. (more)

Coming off his Player of the Week nomination, Jessie Childs played a stellar game with 15 points, five assists, and four steals. What doesn't show up in the box score is his tremendous hustle.
Prior to the game, Coach Cuff had challenged his biggest man, 7-footer Taylor Janowicz, to snag 10 rips for the game.
"I challenged Taylor to go out there and get ten tonight," said Cuff.
Taylor's line? Nine points, 10 boards, three assists.
The players are listening to these coaches and the results are plain as day.
Jonas Pollard and Tyler Molesworth played key minutes for the T'Birds and combined for 11 points off the bench, a category Mesa won 17-12. Mesa also shot 50% from the floor for the game and outrebounded CAC 35-30.
Next for the T'Birds is Phoenix College, on the road, Saturday night, January 12 at 5:30 p.m.

T'Birds Net Biggest Win of Season in Overtime Stunner

Knock off Texas powerhouse Howard Hawks 99-92

Jessie Childs led the way to an improbable victory over a national junior college force in the Howard Hawks, 99-92 in overtime. Childs led all scorers with 32 points on 9 of 16 from the floor. He was also perfect from the free throw line in the second half, going 11 of 11.

John Pena's 21 and David Jackson's 22 and ten rebounds rounded out the strong offensive balance. Tyler Molesworth and Kennard Shaw also made huge impacts on a game that lifts Mesa into the national spotlight.

At 7-1, the Thunderbirds are quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. Head Coach John Mulhern's squad shot 77% from the charity stripe, combined with Coach Joe Ward's instrumental game plan proved to be the difference as Mesa continued to force the issue and get to the free throw line in the second half. The T'Birds also shot a stellar 52% from the field and won the fast break battle 36 to 25, in a testament to the team's speed.

Mesa has no time to rest as the 4th-ranked South Plains Texans visit the friendly confines Friday night January 4 at 7:30 p.m.

Mesa Outlasts Gauchos in Thriller, Now 6-1 Overall

79-77 win makes T'Birds 5-1 in ACCAC

Defense and free throw shooting was the difference as Mesa continued their impressive start to the 2007-08 season - exceptional free throw shooting to be exact.

Mesa was perfect from the free throw line, 14 of 14, and combined with some stellar defense down the stretch, was able to hold off Glendale on Saturday night, December 15.

"The biggest thing I like about these kids is with their composure. They've responded every time when their backs have been against the wall," said Head Coach John Mulhern.

Led in scoring by sophomore forward David Jackson's 21 and sophomore guard John Pena's 17, the T'Birds hold onto to third place in the ACCAC, trailing only Eastern Arizona and Arizona Western. Both those teams are unbeaten in the conference.

Sophomore guard Jessie Childs chipped in 11 points and sophomore guard Rodney Brown's 10 rounded out some balanced offense as Mesa enjoyed four scorers in double-figures.

Mesa has over two weeks to prepare for Howard Community College on Thursday, January 3, 2008 at home at 7:30 p.m.

Men Now 2-0 With Opening Conference Home Win Over Scottsdale

Burn Artichokes 77-62

Head Coach John Mulhern is pleased with the way his team opened up ACCAC play Wednesday night. He should be as his T'Birds roughed up the Artichokes 77-62.

Sophomore guard Jessie Childs led all scorers with 21 points. He also had four rebounds and six assists. Another sophomore guard, John Pena, hit for 20 to go along with five rips.

"We really smothered them on defense and came out with some great intensity to open conference play," said assistant coach Manny Canales.

The T'Birds forced 24 big turnovers and were 24 of 29 from the charity stripe.
Leading 42-24 at the half, the game was, for the most part, over.

"We should have won by 20 but they got some late garbage points," said Canales.

The T'Birds travel to Eastern Arizona Saturday night, December 1 at 7:30 p.m. and will try to extend their winning streak to three.

Men Too Much For Grand Canyon JV In Opening Game

Lopsided 105-42 win has Mesa off and running

Head Coach John Mulhern knew his team should beat Grand Canyon JV. What he didn't know was how handily the beating would be.

"I was pretty confident we'd get it done, but the team looks pretty solid. It was encouraging," said Mulhern.

John Pena led the T'Birds with 18 points, six assists, and one rebound. Jamie Crim led the glass committee, snagging ten boards. Jessie Childs had a well-rounded game as well, scoring ten, grabbing nine boards, and dishing out six dimes.

"Everyone played well. They were all unselfish and that's important," said Assistant Coach Manny Canales.

Next up for the T'Birds are the Scottsdale Artichokes, Wednesday, November 28, 7:30 p.m. at Mesa.

2007-2008 Season Outlook

The 2006-07 Thunderbirds finished 14-8 in the ACCAC and 17-11 overall. Mesa beat out Yavapai for fourth place among Division 1 schools in the Conference.

This year’s team must replace two all-conference performers. Adam McCoy signed with the University of North Texas.  Gabe Freeman now plays professionally in Mexico. 

The Thunderbirds have a mix of returning sophomores and freshmen who seek to win the ACCAC crown. John Pena returns for his sophomore season after a stellar freshman season. Pena, a sharp-shooting guard, led the team and entire league in steals with 3.8 per game. Pena was also second on the team with a 13.1 PPG average, good for 19th in the ACCAC. His 46-percent efficiency from the 3-point arc also led the squad, and ranked 2nd in the ACCAC. Sophomore guards Jesse Childs and Rodney Brown also return for their second seasons. Both bring savvy ball-handling and leadership skills.

The Thunderbirds will count on David Jackson, a 6’8” sophomore transfer from the University of Idaho, to bring his experience, skill, and toughness to the team.  Jackson, a highly sought player out of Rincon High School in Tucson, averaged 7.3 points and 4.8 rebounds for the Vandals last year.

The Thunderbirds will also count on some quality freshman to help carry the load, including Maurice Jackson.  Jackson, a 6’3 guard from Gilbert, Arizona, will be counted on to help run the high-octane offense.

The Thunderbirds look forward to the upcoming season.The coaching staff believes there is a nice mix of talent and experience to help the team compete for the ACCAC championship.

John Mulhern was named Interim Head Coach for the 2007-2008 as Alton Lister has left his post to work for the Atlanta Hawks, according to team sources. An in-depth look into the squad as competition nears.

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