BOONE, N.C. - The middle of October traditionally means one thing for fans of college basketball - the official start of preseason practice. Appalachian is certainly no different as the Mountaineers began team practices in earnest Friday evening at the Holmes Center.

The spirited practice lasted well into the evening hours on the HCC hardwood as head coach Houston Fancher and staff began the task of incorporating four newcomers into the already talented fold of returning players. Fans will get their first preview of the men's basketball squad on November 11 with the team's traditional 'Mountaineer Madness' event at the Holmes Center beginning at 8 p.m.

The Mountaineers spent the practice working on numerous facets of their offensive and defensive strategies with the majority devoted to developing the intensity on every play that will be needed for the Apps to play at their desired pace.

Additionally, extensive time was dedicated to work on the glass as this edition of the Mountaineers will be charged with replacing 90 percent of their rebounding from a season ago. Improvement in rebounding will be critical with Fancher impressing on his squad that rebounds will serve as the first pass in the team's fast break.

On the defensive side of the ball, time was devoted to focusing on defensive closeout, the team's full court pressure and the 2-3 zone.

The intense, classroom-like setting of the first few days of practice will continue tomorrow with a noon practice as newcomers and upperclassmen alike work together to develop a greater understanding and comprehension of the Mountaineers' offensive and defensive schemes.