Let's get it started: George Mason

Another installment in our series of previews of the state's Division I programs as they begin official practices:

GEORGE MASON

Last season: 10-20, 3-15 CAA (12th), lost in 1st round of the CAA Tournament (Delaware)

First practice: Sunday (Oct. 3)

Meet the Patriots: "Mason Madness", a free event featuring music and performances, speeches by both the men's and women's coaches, player introductions and a few on-court drills, is set for Oct. 15 at 9:30 p.m. at the Patriot Center.

Season opener: Nov. 12 at UMass

Coach Jeri Porter on:

Her players' offseason work: "We all decided as a team in post season last year, that our 2010-11 season began last March. As a result, our kids started preparing for this year as soon as the buzzer went off in Harrisonburg! The work ethic, attitude and intensity even in the summer months was evident of our players desire to move this program in a new direction."




Brittany Poindexter

Veteran poised for a breakout season: "Brittany Poindexter has been our leading scorer over the past two seasons, and we challenged her last spring to add a few things to her game that would make her even tougher to defend. I believe that this will be a big season for her as she closes out her career here at Mason."

Newcomer making the quickest adjustment: "Taleia Moton played for us as a freshman at Radford and brought with her a solid understanding of our system. That, along with the season that she had to polish up her game is going to make her a very solid addition to our line up. Also, Evelyn Lewis gives us a much needed post presence on both ends of the floor."

Preview previews
William and Mary
Norfolk State
Longwood
James Madison
Old Dominion
Virginia
Richmond
Liberty