Former NJCAA National Coach of the Year Greg Heiar leads MAC Cardinals to a perfect start

Discover the triumphant journey of former NJCAA National Coach of the Year, Greg Heiar, as the Mineral Area College Cardinals to an impressive 11-0 start.

Attempting to leave the past behind, former New Mexico State University head coach Greg Heiar is embracing a fresh start with his new team, the Mineral Area College Cardinals, who have launched their season on an exceptionally positive note. The Cardinals, a junior college (JUCO) team based in Park Hills, Missouri, have impressively secured an undefeated 11-0 record to kick off the season, marked by large margin wins, notable victories against a nationally ranked opponent and securing championships in MTE tournaments.

Though controversy has certainly surrounded Heiar’s coaching career, he has had plenty of success throughout his time spanning over two decades now. In 2022, Heiar reached the pinnacle of his coaching journey by securing the title of NJCAA National Coach of the Year, an accolade earned through his leadership in guiding the Northwest Florida State College Raiders to a triumphant NJCAA D1 National Championship.

With Heiar as coach, the Mineral Area College basketball team is making waves in the early season, showcasing a style of play that revolves around lightning-fast guard play and an unmatched level of physicality on the court. This dynamic approach has propelled the team to a series of victories, highlighting their ability to outpace, and outmuscle opponents.

One key strategy contributing to their success is the utilization of player depth by wholesale line changes, ensuring a constant infusion of fresh players and a high intensity pace. This tactical rotation has proven effective in maintaining a high tempo pace throughout the game, catching adversaries off guard and capitalizing on moments of fatigue and teams without as much depth.

Among the standout performers, freshman guard Preston Turner has emerged as a pivotal sniper, impressing with his hot shooting hand and remarkable deep ball range. Turner’s scoring prowess adds a potent offensive dimension to the team’s strategy. Complementing this, sophomore guard Josh Meo brings a physical edge, demonstrating a knack for driving the lane and imposing his presence on both ends of the court.

Adding to the team’s formidable guard lineup is the quick and agile sophomore guard Marcus Watson Jr. Known for his defensive prowess, Watson not only disrupts opponents with steals but also contributes to the team’s offensive flow and high energy play. Together, and with Heiar at the helm, these key factors have played a pivotal role in Mineral Area College’s early-season success, setting the stage for an exciting and promising campaign for the 2023-24 season.

Catch Mineral Area College vs and Lewis & Clark Community College on December 3rd at 7:00 PM CST at St. Louis Community College in Forest Park as part of the STLCC Shootout.