The NOC Mavs open the 2024-25 season in the Cowley Classic Nov. 1 against Independence (KS).

NOC returns James Brown, Jr. and Kaydin Shaw from last year and a group of promising transfers and freshmen.

"Honestly, we've been up and down this fall," said second year coach Brandon Gossett.  "We've had some injuries this fall and so we've been trying to find some chemistry with a lot of different guys.  There is always a learning curve with young players."

"Hopefully, we are getting everyone healthy as the season starts," he added.

At the guard spot, the Mavs Brown and Kody Hickerson at the point while Jace Breath and Levi O'Brien will play the shooting guard spot.

Inside, the Mavs have Benji Nelson, Brandon Domsch, and Jack Riley.  Also, Gor Ruey, Kabron Lewis, Kaydin Shaw, and Ebi Bortey will vie for playing time.

"I like our size and length," Gossett said.  "We've really improved our size and length from last season which will help us defensively and rebounding.  I also think we'll shoot the ball better."

NOC faces a challenging schedule with several classics in Texas and New Mexico.

"We are playing one of the toughest schedules in the country," Gossett said.  "It's a great opportunity for our players to face tough teams and use it to improve for conference play in January."