Dixie State Basketball: 2020-21 season preview for the Trailblazers

Expectations for Dixie State Basketball in 2020-21

There is never much certainty for a team that makes the jump from the D-II to the D-I level. Some teams go through growing pains, while others turn into a juggernaut in their conference, and get national recognition for it.

Gonzaga’s first NCAA Tournament appearance wasn’t until five years before Mark Few took the job. Although the uphill climb will be tough, Dixie State has a history of winning and think they can be a threat within their first few years at the D-I level.

One area that the Trailblazers was underwhelming in last season, was shooting from beyond the arc. They were just 36% in that category and shot an average of 71% as a team. Although those are numbers are acceptable, the question is whether they can either mimic those numbers or increase them in the WAC.

Hunter Schofield should be an impact player in the conference and the expectation is for him to be the best player on the team. With his potential, there’s a good shot of him landing on the First Team, by the end of the season.

Frank Staine is looking to avoid the sophomore slump. After a fantastic freshman season, he will be responsible for more production next season. This will be a big challenge for the Sophomore, so if there’s one player to keep an eye on over the next few seasons, it’s Staine.

The biggest question they addressed during the off-season is adding depth. With the addition of Frazier and a few freshmen, the question is whether they can be quality depth for the Trailblazers.

It is always exciting to add new members to the NCAA and to follow their journey through the transition. With the history of Coach Judkins, he is used to winning and winning consistently. Although this is a big hurdle, he is certainly ready for the challenge.

Welcome to the D-I level, Dixie State!