Photo courtesy of TCU Athletics.
Basketball is back at TCU.
After several relatively stagnant seasons, the Horned Frogs are looking to start fresh with a new coach, new uniforms and new mindset.
The season starts Friday with the Frogs hosting the University of Saint Thomas at 6 p.m. Before you head out to the Schollmaier Arena, here's a quick guide to everything you need to know about the men's basketball team this year.
The New Man in Charge: Jamie Dixon
TCU's new head coach Jamie Dixon was a Frog himself, known for his game-winning miracle shot against Texas in 1986. Now he’s back in purple after spending 13 seasons as head coach at the University of Pittsburgh, where he amassed a 328-123 overall record and 11 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Names to Know
Chris Washburn dunks against West Virginia. Photo courtesy of TCU Athletics.
Four out of five starters from last season are back this year. Keep an eye on seniors Karviar Shepherd, Chris Washburn and Brandon Parrish, who've combined for 214 total starts at TCU. Junior Malique Trent is also another player to look out for. Trent was the team's second-leading scorer last season, averaging 11.6 points per game.
Key Games
TCU vs. West Virginia. Photo courtesy of TCU Athletics.
TCU will begin conference play Dec. 30 against an opponent that's not intimidating at all – Kansas (sarcastically speaking, of course). Thankfully for the Frogs, they get home court advantage the first time around. TCU will face Kansas again in Lawrence on Feb. 22.
Other opponents to keep in your radar are Oklahoma, Iowa State, West Virginia and Texas. The Frogs also face an SEC team, Auburn, on Jan. 28. The full schedule can be found here.
Fun Stuff
Schollmaier Arena. Photo courtesy of TCU Athletics.
Along with the game itself, TCU also has a bunch of other fun features planned for the season opener. For one thing, the game will celebrate TCU's new coach by handing out free Jamie Dixon bobbleheads to all fans in attendance.
When the men's game is over, fans can also stay and watch the women's basketball game for free. The ladies will take on Incarnate Word shortly after the men's game ends.
Looking for things to do this holiday season?
Check out our "50 Ways to Enjoy the Holidays" blog post to stay informed on the best holiday activities in the city.
