LINCOLN, Neb. (October 22, 2024) – After a stellar 2023-24 season, Nebraska Wesleyan Men's Basketball is ready to take the court for the 2024-25 campaign with high expectations. The Prairie Wolves are coming off an Elite 8 appearance and a regular-season conference championship, positioning themselves as a top contender in the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) once again.

2023-24 IN REVIEW
The Nebraska Wesleyan men's basketball team had an incredible 2023-24 season, finishing with a 26-5 overall record. The Prairie Wolves claimed their fifth A-R-C Regular Season title, their first since 2020, and earned a trip to the NCAA Division III Elite 8. Despite falling short in the A-R-C Tournament final, they ended the season ranked #9 nationally. Key contributors like Peter Lash, who was the team's leading scorer last season, played a pivotal role in their success, although Lash will not return for the 2024-25 season.

RETURNING PLAYERS AND NEW ADDITIONS
Head Coach Dale Wellman enters his 11th season with a mix of experience and fresh faces. The Prairie Wolves return 11 players, including three returning starters: Carter Glenn, Jack Groeteke, and Conner Brown. These veterans will provide leadership and stability on the court. In addition, Nebraska Wesleyan welcomes three transfers and three freshmen, adding depth and versatility to the roster as they prepare for another deep postseason run.

2024-25 SCHEDULE INFORMATION
Nebraska Wesleyan will face a challenging schedule this season, with key matchups against non-conference foes Wisconsin Eau-Claire and Wisconsin La-Crosse. Another highlight will be their showdown with Franklin College, now coached by former Nebraska Wesleyan Assistant Coach Chris Hamilton. Within the A-R-C, a much-anticipated rematch with tournament champion Loras is circled on the calendar. The regular season concludes with potential conference-deciding games between Coe College, Central College, and Buena Vista, before the A-R-C Tournament begins in February.

PRESEASON POLL
Nebraska Wesleyan was picked to finish first in the 2024-25 A-R-C preseason coaches poll, despite the departure of leading scorer Peter Lash. The Prairie Wolves received strong support from the league's coaches, who believe the combination of experienced returners and new talent will propel them to another successful season.

2024-25 American Rivers Conference Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll

HEAD COACH DALE WELLMAN PROFILE
Dale Wellman enters his 11th season as the head coach of Nebraska Wesleyan Men's Basketball, having led the Prairie Wolves to numerous accomplishments, including a national championship in 2018. Under his guidance, the program has seen five A-R-C Regular Season titles and multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Wellman is confident that the 2024-25 team has the depth and talent to compete at the highest level once again.

NEBRASKA WESLEYAN ROSTER BREAKDOWN

• Carter Glenn (Returning Starter, Guard): Glenn had an outstanding 2023-24 season, starting 30 of 31 games and averaging 15.7 points per game while playing 34 minutes per contest. He shot 44.6% from the field and 32.5% from beyond the arc, adding 104 free throws at a 77.6% clip. Glenn also contributed 84 rebounds, 114 assists, and 76 steals, showcasing his all-around abilities on both ends of the floor.
• Jack Groeteke (Returning Starter, Forward): Groeteke was a force inside for the Prairie Wolves, averaging 11.3 points per game on an efficient 49.4% shooting. He knocked down 31 three-pointers at a 34.4% rate and hit 58 free throws at 80.6%. Groeteke grabbed 185 total rebounds (6.0 RPG) and added 12 assists and 58 blocks, providing strong defense in the paint.
• Conner Brown (Returning Starter, Forward): Brown brought energy and efficiency to the team last season, averaging 6.7 points and 3.9 rebounds in 20.5 minutes per game. He shot an impressive 54.9% from the field and contributed 62 assists and 43 steals, making his presence felt in multiple facets of the game.
• Newcomers: The Prairie Wolves have added three transfers and three freshmen, all of whom are expected to contribute early on.

HEAD COACH COMMENTS
"We're excited for what this season holds," said Coach Wellman. "We have a great group of guys, and while we'll miss Peter Lash, I believe the mix of returners and newcomers will allow us to stay competitive and chase another conference title."

SEASON OPENER
Nebraska Wesleyan will tip off the 2024-25 season on November 9 at Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.

The 2024-25 Men's and Women's Basketball season is brought to you by TeamMates Mentoring.