In all of Air Force’s preseason practices, coach Jeff Reynolds remembers just two sessions where the players seemed a little flat. He takes that as a great sign his team is ready to go this season, which begins Friday night when Air Force takes on Army at Clune Arena in the All-Military Classic.

“This group has probably been the most consistent with energy and effort in practice,” Reynolds said.

Reynolds hasn’t announced his starting lineup for the opener, but it’s likely that Todd Fletcher and Michael Lyons start in the backcourt, with Mike Fitzgerald, Taylor Stewart and Taylor Broekhuis up front.

There will be some freshmen in the mix for minutes after the starters. Guard Chris Carter has probably been the best freshman so far. Kamryn Williams has impressed the coaches with his consistency. DeLovell Earls tapered off a bit near the end of the preseason, Reynolds said, but he is still a possibility. Marek Olesinksi could be a shooter off the bench, and Colt Barnhill, Max Yon and Justin Hammonds also got praise from Reynolds. It is a deep class.

“Bigger, stronger, more athletic,” Reynolds said.

Reynolds said the team has defended well in the preseason and is rebounding a bit better. He said what has concerned him is scoring and too many turnovers. Those answers will start to come when the Falcons tip off against Army.

“You’re always concerned and apprehensive about who’s going to put the ball in the basket when the lights are on,” Reynolds said.

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