Happy to be back on the court

For a moment, the Cyclone men's basketball season was off the table because of the pandemic, but the team is now able to play up to 10 games and couldn’t be happier.

Normally, the Cyclones officially start their season in November. However, COVID-19 delayed the start to January, and then the season was canceled. They were finally given the green light to play some games starting this month, although they won’t officially count toward their record. Even with these restrictions, the team is happy to be back on the court.

“The last year has been very tough for a lot of people, but especially difficult on all our kids. This next month of basketball will hopefully give them a real college experience but, more importantly, hope for the future,” said Head Coach John Chappetto, in his second season leading the program. “From a basketball standpoint, it’s not going to be easy, but it will be great preparation for the 2021-22 season.”

Returning for this abbreviated season are a few sophomores, including last year’s starting forward Trevon Jones (Richards), guards Jalen Levy (Rich East) and Chris Harrison (Shepard), and forward Nathan Purcell (Lincoln-Way Central). Promising newcomers include guard Kobe Adams (Oswego), forward Deandre Hagan (Brother Rice) and a guard from Richards, Kajuan Wines.

“We are very thankful for our athletic director, Bill Finn, his entire staff and Moraine Valley president Dr. Jenkins for fighting for our student-athletes to allow them to play the game they love,” Chappetto said. “Over the past two weeks, it’s been great for me and my assistant coaches to not only be around our players but share in their joy.”

No spectators are allowed, so all home games for the Cyclones will be livestreamed to youtube.com/user/MVCCMultimedia. For schedules to basketball and all Cyclones sports, visit mvcyclones.com.