Oct. 14, 2006

PHILADELPHIA - The Saint Joseph's men's basketball team will take to the court for its first official practice today, October 14.

Head coach Phil Martelli, now in his 12th season, will guide a squad of nine returning letterwinners and a group of talented freshmen.

The Hawks begin preparations for the 2006-07 season which opens on November 14, when SJU hosts Fairfield at the Fieldhouse.

Junior Rob Ferguson is the team's leading returning scorer (10.8 ppg) and will be joined by sophomore Ahmad Nivins and junior Pat Calathes as the most experienced returning players in the group, while center Artur Surov is the lone senior.

The Hawks' newcomers are comprised of Jawan Carter, Darrin Govens, D.J. Rivera, Rockwell Moody and Garrett Williamson.