With a combination of experience and new additions, the Lindenwood men’s basketball team is working hard towards a successful season in 2021-22. 

Last year, third year head coach Kyle Gerdeman and the Lions went 10-10 overall and 10-9 in the GLVC. 

“I thought we had a great experience last year, with the success that we had, making the GLVC Tournament,” Gerdeman said. “We went on the road to make the tournament.”

The Lions played against UMSL in the first round, coming up short in a 84-78 final score.

“I think that kind of left a hunger, maybe a bad taste in our mouths, so to speak, that we felt like we were right there on the edge of making the tournament which was the goal of ours,” Gerdeman said. “And it almost feel like you almost win your first round game and you got to move on, I think that left us with some motivation.”

This year, the team has had more time to practice together in a normal routine to build trust and chemistry for the upcoming season.

“I feel like we have a special group this year,” said senior forward Romelo Burrell. “We have a lot of guys that like to compete, we have a few D-1 transfers which really helps, and we have a lot of guys that really complement each other.”

Due to COVID last year, the NCAA granted one more year of eligibility to the seniors in order to play this season. Burrell was one of those seniors who was granted another opportunity.

“I feel like it’s a blessing because I’m getting an extra year like most of the seniors in the NCAA,  and I’m actually really excited,” Burrell said. “I have a lot I want to accomplish this season.”

The Lions will be tested on the road for the first two games of the season. They will play two Division I programs, Saint Louis University and Northwestern University. 

“We have a few guys that have been at that level, and I think we’re going into those games, thinking we can beat those guys and that we’re ready to compete.” Burrell said. “We’re not going to lay down.”