Thunder Men's Basketball 2024/25 Season Preview

Another season of Men’s Basketball is here. For the first time in over a decade, there will be a new head coach for the program. Robbie Valpreda is taking the lead, moving over from the women’s basketball program. “I'm looking forward to coaching this group of student athletes, this is a hungry bunch of players that are wanting to get better each practice and game,” Valpreda commented.

The group is built to win now with multiple returning players. Fifth years Milton Lendein, Alex MacLean, and 2023-24 All-Conference guard Yaadvir Dhaliwal headline a leadership group that also includes fourth years Kyler Dutka and O’Ryan Wallace. Look for third year Roka Phalen-Baker to also take a big jump forward for this team, expanding his minutes from last season and providing huge depth for the Thunder.

There are only three new faces joining the team. This group will be carried by its veteran players who are all hungry for more. “We’re looking forward to a big season ahead. We have the majority of our team back from last year, making the start of the season smooth,” said fifth year player Milton Lendein. “We have high hopes with a goal of seeing a new banner up in our gym”. 

Men’s basketball’s home opener will be on Friday October 18th at Ralph King Athletic Centre as the Thunder go up against St. Mary’s University Lightning to start their season.