McKinnell Men's Basketball Captains

Senior forwards Bill Hardwick of Boothbay and Jesse McKinnell of Manomet, Mass. have been named co-captains of the 2005-2006 University of Southern Maine Huskies men's basketball team. Head coach Karl Henrikson made the announcement this week as the Huskies prepare for their season opener November 18.

McKinnell and Hardwick, the only seniors on the roster, return to lead a youthful team that includes four sophomores and eight newcomers to the USM program.

"Jesse and Bill have earned the respect of their teammates," noted Henrikson, who begins his third season at the controls. "They both possess a great work ethic and determination. Their on and off the court leadership will be instrumental this season."

Hardwick, a 6-foot-4-inch forward, matured as player during the second half of last season and became a consistent offensive threat for the Huskies. Hardwick ended the 2004-2005 campaign averaging 8.4 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 60.4 percent from the field.

"Bill is a solid athlete with great hands," said Henrikson. "He knows how to use his body to find a way to finish around the basket. His continued growth as an all-around basketball player and his leadership will be key to the development of this team."

McKinnell, a 6-foot-6-inch forward, returns as the Huskies leader on the boards. Last season, he averaged 6.9 rebounds to go along with a steady 6.7 points per game. One of the team's top defensive players, McKinnell blocked a team-high 16 shots in 2004-2005.

"Jesse is a true leader and a very intense basketball player," said Henrikson. "He expects nothing but the best from himself and his teammates."

Jason Hardwick, Bill's brother and a sophomore at USM, is also a member of the men's team.

The Hardwick brothers are the sons of Wayne and Beth Hardwick.

Southern Maine, which finished the 2004-2005 season with a 9-17 record, begins the 2005-2006 season on Friday, November 18 at the Gordon College Tournament. The Huskies season-opener will be against Westfield State at 6 p.m. The Huskies will then play either Framingham State or Gordon the next evening (6:00 or 8:00 p.m.) to conclude the tournament. Southern Maine closes out the month at home with a pair of games against in-state rivals Bates College (Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m.) and Bowdoin College (Nov. 29, 8:00 p.m.).

More information on the USM men's basketball team can be found at www.usm.maine.edu/athletics/ .