Grand Canyon Basketball: 2017-18 season preview for the Antelopes

TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 14: Head coach Dan Majerle of the Grand Canyon Lopes reacts during the college basketball game against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center on December 14, 2016 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats defeated the Lopes 64-54. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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TUCSON, AZ – DECEMBER 14: DeWayne Russell /

Starters

Casey Benson

It’s a debate as to who starts at the point but the former Oregon point guard gets the nod due to his experience in big-time situations. Benson elected to become a grad transfer after being relegated to backup duties at Oregon due to talented young point guard Payton Pritchard. There was little debate over where Benson would play his grad year as his brother T.J. is a current assistant on the coaching staff at Grand Canyon.

As far as what he brings, Benson is a steady ball handler who averaged over three assists two years ago as a starter in the Pac-12. His 40% shooting from distance should open things up for a guy who might be the best overall player in the league as well.

Joshua Braun

The undisputed star of this year’s team, Braun has the versatility to score in many ways. He’s comfortable on the perimeter and in the post and will be used in many different lineups for Majerle. In an injury-riddled season a year ago, the upcoming senior was still productive, averaging 17.5 ppg and 4.6 rpg. Two years ago, he was tops in the WAC in getting to the free throw line as well as his percentage there. It’s possible he will be a top-5 mid-major basketball player this season.

Gerard Martin

Injuries forced this 6’6″ forward to have a more prominent role last season, and he struggled with the new workload. In similar minutes from the year prior, his efficiency dropped across the board. His 3-point percentage dropped by 13%, his free throw percentage by 25%, and his field goal percentage by 6%. If the regression continues, Martin won’t be starting for long.

Oscar Frayer

Frayer turned out to be a great find for the Antelopes, as the freshman forward averaged 7.9 ppg and 4.5 rpg. His specialty is on defense, though, where he finished top-10 in blocks, and overall defensive ratings in the conference.

Keonta Vernon

Another top defensive player, Vernon is a prototypical back-to-the-basket big. He improved in every aspect of his game last season, especially in rebounding with seven boards a night. Grand Canyon was solid on defense last year, but should be even better this year.