July 19 - Bison Men's Basketball Head Coach Rick Suffield has never seen so much talent ready to take to the floor in his program since he took over 17 years ago. Calling it his best recruiting off-season since taking over the reins in 1984, Suffield closely resembles the cat that swallowed the canary when discussing the list of players that have committed to the U of M for the upcoming season.

Headlining the list of blue-chip recruits is Texan Arthur Lawrence, who according to Suffield will be "The player to watch in the CIAU" this season. The 6'6" forward from Austin, Texas has a 38-inch vertical as well as an incredibly soft touch from the outside. Lawrence has the ability to set up easy baskets for his team-mates and also possesses a wide array of dunks that are sure to rock the house this season. Look for Lawrence to quickly establish himself as a dominant force at the CIAU level.

Ivan Saric is a 6'7" post player from Edmonton who is extremely athletic for a big man. Saric averaged 20 ppg and 15 rebounds last year in leading his team to the provincial High School final in Alberta last year.

Another big man who should make an immediate impact is 6'8' post player Chris Hildebrand. He averaged 18 ppg and 11 boards last year playing in the Fraser Valley Conference. His 235-lb frame should also make it tough on opponents trying to take it inside against the Herd.

Kevin Westell is a 6'5" forward who is transferring from Capilano Junior College in B.C. Kevin brings a dangerous three-point shot as well as valuable experience to the Herd's line-up, having been a member of the Simon Fraser Clansmen two seasons ago.

Westell's team-mate at Capilano last year, Jatinder Johal will also bring his game to the Prairies this winter. The 6'6" post player is strong underneath the boards and will bring talent and maturity to the Bison line-up.

Another Junior College player from B.C. who is expected to make an immediate impact this season is 6'0" point guard Vinny Dumas. Dumas is a transfer from Kwantlen J.C. where he was the starting point guard for two years. According to Suffield, Dumas is extremely intense on the defensive side of the ball and can also push the tempo on offence.

6'3" forward/ guard Evan Woodland is the last of Suffield's out of province recruits. The native of Fort Frances, Ontario is an excellent athlete who averaged 17 ppg and poured in 46 against Oak Park this past season. Having the benefit of playing in Grade 13 in Ontario will give Woodland some additional experience in his first year at the CIAU level.

Two Manitoba products round out Suffield's recruiting binge, both of whom are members of the Canada Games Junior Provincial Team.

Darcy Coss is a 6'4" forward who averaged 15 ppg and 10 rebounds last season for the Glenlawn Lions. He is a quality athlete who is expected to be a big part of the Bisons future.

Last but not least is Glenne Manlig from the Daniel Mac Maroons. Although small in stature at only 5'7", Manlig has exceptional quickness and a fiery competitive nature. The starting point guard averaged 14 points in leading his team to the provincial High School Championship last year.

Coach Suffield is very optimistic about the upcoming year noting that his team will be an opportunistic, fast-breaking team that will apply pressure at both ends of the court.