Mount Mercy University, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a private Catholic university that offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, including sports. The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team is a popular and competitive team that competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). In this article, we will provide an overview of the team, including its history, achievements, and notable players.
History of the Mount Mercy University Mustangs Basketball Team
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team was established in the early 1970s, shortly after the university's founding in 1928. Since then, the team has undergone several transformations, including changes in coaching staff, player roster, and conference affiliations. Despite these changes, the team has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for the sport.
Notable Achievements and Accolades
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team has achieved numerous accolades and recognition throughout its history. Some notable achievements include:
- Winning the NAIA Division II National Championship in 2013
- Appearing in the NAIA Division II National Tournament six times since 2008
- Winning 20 or more games in a season on five occasions
- Producing several All-American players, including one player who was named the NAIA Division II Player of the Year
Coaching Staff and Notable Players
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team is led by a experienced and skilled coaching staff, including:
- Head Coach: Paul Gavin
- Assistant Coaches: Mark Durbahn, Ryan Gavin, and Jamie Boden
Some notable players who have donned the Mustangs jersey include:
- Alex Houston, a two-time NAIA All-American who graduated in 2017
- Alex Cantwell, a NAIA All-American who graduated in 2018
- Michael Mohring, a two-time NAIA All-American who graduated in 2020
Current Roster and Season Performance
As of the 2022-2023 season, the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team has a strong roster of talented players, including:
- Guards: Jack Hansen, Tyler Kelley, and Luke Hartsock
- Forwards: Jacob Lang, Ben Siples, and Austin Alvarado
- Centers: Collin McMahon and Will Gavin
The team has performed well in recent seasons, winning 20 or more games in three consecutive seasons from 2019 to 2022.
Facilities and Support Staff
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team plays its home games at the Hennessey Recreation Center, a state-of-the-art facility that seats over 2,000 spectators. The team also has access to top-notch training facilities and equipment, including a strength and conditioning center and a athletic training room.
The team's support staff includes:
- Athletic Trainer: Krista Gray
- Strength and Conditioning Coach: Matt Bennett
- Athletic Director: Dr. Sara Eisenmann
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team is committed to community engagement and outreach, participating in several events and activities throughout the year, including:
- Hosting youth basketball camps and clinics
- Participating in charity games and fundraisers
- Visiting local schools and hospitals
Future Prospects and Goals
The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team has ambitious goals for the future, including:
- Winning the NAIA Division II National Championship
- Appearing in the NAIA Division II National Tournament on a regular basis
- Producing talented players who go on to compete at the professional level
With a strong coaching staff, talented players, and a commitment to excellence, the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team is well-positioned to achieve its goals and continue its tradition of success.
What is the name of the Mount Mercy University basketball team?
+The Mount Mercy University basketball team is called the Mustangs.
What conference does the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team compete in?
+The Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC).
Who is the head coach of the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team?
+The head coach of the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team is Paul Gavin.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Mount Mercy University Mustangs basketball team. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to reach out.