UNC Asheville Bulldogs Prepare for Season Opener Against Wichita State

Wichita, KS — The UNC Asheville Bulldogs men’s basketball team is set to kick off their season against Wichita State on Tuesday, November 4, at 7:30 PM. This matchup marks the beginning of Head Coach Mike Morrell‘s eighth season leading the Bulldogs.

In recent years, Asheville has enjoyed unprecedented success, winning 87 games over the last four seasons. Morrell reached his 100th career win last season, the fastest in the program’s history for both men’s and women’s basketball. He stands among the top 15 in Big South history for all-time wins.

Asheville’s Kimmel Arena has proven to be a fortress, with a .926 winning percentage and a 38-3 record over the last three seasons. This year’s roster features a mix of eight returning players and eight newcomers, with Big South Preseason Player of the Year, Tajian Solomon, leading the charge. Solomon started all 32 games last season, averaging 15.7 points and ranking first in blocks in the Big South.

Supporting Solomon are key contributors such as sophomore guard Jalen Lyles, who has been recognized as a reliable sixth man. The Bulldogs have been picked to finish second in the Big South preseason poll, maintaining a place in the top-half of the league standings since the 2020-21 season.

In their recent exhibition match against Truett McConnell, Asheville displayed their firepower by achieving a commanding 92-54 victory, highlighting their readiness for the upcoming season.

As they open on the road for the fifth consecutive year, the Bulldogs will face tough competition against a Wichita State team with significant roster changes and a predicted fifth-place finish in their conference. Under the leadership of Coach Paul Mills, the Shockers have 12 newcomers and are coming off a National Invitation Tournament appearance.

The thrilling encounter is eagerly anticipated as both teams look to establish their identity in the early part of the season.